I personally don't use hides in my dumerils cages. I just make sure that the aspen is deep enough that they feel secure. They are ambush predators so they really like to burrow and wait on food to wander by. Thewinwizard has the general info on them 100% correct. as for the shed process its basicly the same as any other. they get pink belly, then go blue, then clear up, and then shed. from what I've noticed on mine it does take a little longer for the process than a ball but still the same process. good luck and hope you enjoy it. Dums are great and my personal favorite boa. I've got 3 and they are all recues.