Shedding????

[codpy]

Being new at all of this, I have a question. My ball python has some milky coloured spots starting around the top of his head, does that mean he is going to start to shed soon?????

[Spaniard]

Is it a retained shed? Picture would be lots of help.

[codpy]

I don't know, there are a few spots at the back of his head and a little on the top. sorry can't do pics, not great on computer either!

[JLC]

It sounds like some old skin retained from his last shed. Usually a shed is preceeded by milky eyes...and then the eyes clear up and the whole snake will look darker for a couple of days before shedding.


It would be fine to leave those spots alone and wait for them to come off with his next shed.

EDIT to clarify -- when I say "usually preceeded by milky eyes"....I mean, it always is, but sometimes we miss that phase if we're not looking at the snake very single day.

[codpy]

How often do these guys shed? I was told 2 a year.

[JLC]

Young ones can shed every 4-6 weeks...sometimes more often, sometimes less. It all depends on fast they are growing. Here's an excellent write-up on the entire process and should hopefully answer your questions more thoroughly:

http://www.ball-pythons.net/forums/s...ad.php?t=28794

[codpy]

Thanks alot for the help!!!

[joepythons]

How often do these guys shed? I was told 2 a year.

Who ever told you this probably only feeds his snake twice a year also .Please ignore this person as it sounds like they do not have a clue when it comes to the proper ways to care for ball pythons.If you have questions please ask us and we WILL give you the correct info .If you could also invite that person to become a member here and we can also inform him .