Shedding Q

[Walkonwater]

Hey I was just wandering, my girl has eye caps but isn't shedding and it's been three days. How long before she sheds?

[Smynx]

They'll usually shed within 5-7 days after their eyes go cloudy.

[Walkonwater]

Thank you, I was a teeny bit concerned. Should I be giving her baths now that her eyes are blue or wait a bit.

[Marla]

If the humidity in her enclosure is at the right levels, she shouldn't need any baths at all. Are you measuring the humidity? If so, how?

[Walkonwater]

I have two hydrometers in a 10 gallon and there is high humidity, I was told by two breeders and an herp doctor that baths can help moisturize and loosen skin, is this incorrect?

[Marla]

Yes, it's true up to a point. Too much soaking will actually leach moisture out of the skin, like a dishwasher can end up with dry, chapped hands. That's why you don't want to soak unless it's necessary. By "two hydrometers", I am guessing you mean two analog (not digital) hygrometers, which are often extremely inaccurate. If you can replace them with a digital one or at least check them against a digital hygrometer, you'll have a much better idea of the actual humidity.

[Walkonwater]

Yeah I'm sure that's true how much and where can I get one?
I live in texas and let outside air in, our humidity in summer rarely drops below 60 and inside is no exception, I can feel the moisture so it's probably alright but I would like to have a digi?

[Smynx]

You can get one (Accurite) at WalMart for $15 that will measure temperature on both sides of the tank (to ensure that perfect heat gradient) as well as overall humidity.

[elevatethis]

My humidity levels are always alright during shed, but I have found it beneficial to give a bath once I notice their eyes clear and the skin start to get dull and wrinkly. I guess if for some reason they weren't getting enough moisture in the air, the bath at that particular point in time tops off whatever they'd need.

[Walkonwater]

Awesome advice guys, it's so nice to have a forum like this. 15 dollars is pretty good, I will have to get one for sure.