Is This Scale Rot?

[camilleon]

The white paper towels will help you assess the possible mite situation- look for tiny specks in the water bowl- they hide very well on a snake's body- especially around the eyes, in nostrils, on the chin, & under scales anywhere, including the "vent". I would avoid treating for mites unless you're sure they exist- and only snake mites really matter. Wood mites sometimes occur (especially with wood & mulch decor) & they're annoying but won't hurt the snake. Sometimes the warmth & humidity attracts other insects too, like fungus gnats. Also, IF you find snake mites, discard ALL decor made of wood as it's porous & both mites & their eggs will be hiding & residing there.

BTW, How long have you had this snake? Is is your only snake? Here's hoping you don't have any snake mites. They are tiny- like a pinpoint- & may appear black, brown or red when they've been sucking blood from your snake. They also move- unlike the specks that "came with your snake"-

I have been looking vigorously and found no tiny specks, whether in his water dish, his eyes, his vent, etc. The paper towels are also clean.

He is my first and only snake, and I got him July 31st, 2020, so he’s almost three 😊

I just got him checked over by a reptile specialist, and she said it seems like due to the fact that he’s about to shed, and that I have cypress mulch and cork bark, that the scratches are his shed skin first coming off, and then getting filled in and made more visible by the dust of the mulch. And the red scratch on his side is from him rubbing himself too hard on something (most likely the cork bark), and due to him being a banana the scratch is especially visible. She also said to just wait till he sheds fully, and give him a once over again and come back if there’s any remaining marks. Otherwise he is very healthy, which gives me peace of mind.

Thank you for your help again!!