Snakes periodically shed their outer layer of skin, a process known as ecdysis, which is a natural and necessary biological function. This shedding allows for growth and helps remove external parasites or damaged skin. The skin of a snake does not grow with the animal, so as a garter snake increases in size, it must shed its restrictive outer layer to accommodate its expanding body. This renewal ensures the snake’s skin remains healthy and functional.
How Often Garter Snakes Shed
The frequency of shedding in garter snakes varies significantly depending on their age and growth rate. Younger garter snakes, particularly juveniles, shed more often due to their rapid growth, typically every 3 to 8 weeks. This accelerated shedding accommodates their increasing size.
As garter snakes reach adulthood and their growth slows, shedding frequency decreases. Adult garter snakes shed less often, usually two to four times a year, or approximately every 2 to 3 months. This reduced frequency reflects their slower growth rate. While these are general averages, individual garter snakes can show some variation in their shedding cycles.
Factors Influencing Shedding Frequency
Several internal and external factors influence how often a garter snake sheds its skin.
Growth Rate
A primary determinant is the snake’s growth rate. Faster growth, often seen in well-fed younger snakes, results in more frequent shedding. Conversely, a slower growth rate in adult snakes leads to less frequent ecdysis.
Diet and Nutrition
Diet and nutrition play a substantial role. Well-fed snakes receiving adequate nutrients tend to grow more quickly and shed more often. Insufficient food intake or poor nutrition can delay shedding cycles.
Environmental Conditions
Environmental conditions are also important. Optimal temperature and humidity levels promote healthy and regular shedding. Suboptimal conditions, such as temperatures that are too low or humidity levels that are too dry, can stress the snake and disrupt its shedding pattern.
Health Status
A garter snake’s overall health status also impacts its shedding frequency. Illnesses, parasitic infestations, or injuries can cause irregular or delayed shedding. High stress levels, whether from an unsuitable environment or frequent handling, can similarly affect a snake’s ability to shed regularly.
Understanding the Shedding Process
Before a garter snake sheds its skin, several noticeable changes occur, indicating the impending ecdysis. The snake’s skin will appear duller or faded, and its eyes will become cloudy or milky, often described as a “blue phase.” This cloudiness is due to a layer of lymphatic fluid accumulating between the old and new eye caps, temporarily impairing the snake’s vision. During this pre-shed period, a garter snake may also exhibit reduced activity, a decreased appetite, and may seek out secluded hiding spots.
After a few days, the eyes typically clear again as the fluid is reabsorbed, signaling that the actual shedding event is imminent. To initiate the shed, the snake will rub its snout against rough surfaces, such as rocks or branches, to create a tear in the old skin, usually around the mouth. It then continues to slither and push against objects, effectively peeling the old skin off from head to tail, often turning it inside out like a discarded sock.
Following a successful shed, the garter snake’s eyes will be clear, and its skin will appear brighter and more vibrant. It is important to ensure that the entire shed skin, including the delicate eye caps, comes off in one complete piece. Providing a humid environment, such as a water dish large enough for soaking or a humid hide with damp moss, can assist the snake in achieving a complete shed. During this sensitive time, minimizing handling is recommended, as snakes can be irritable and visually impaired.