Snakes regularly shed their skin, a process called ecdysis. This natural biological event occurs periodically throughout their life. Unlike humans who constantly shed skin cells in tiny flakes, snakes shed their entire outer layer of skin in one continuous piece. This process serves several important biological functions.
Why Snakes Must Shed
Snakes shed their skin primarily to accommodate their ongoing growth. A snake’s body continues to increase in size, but its outer skin, composed of keratin, does not stretch or grow with it. As the snake grows larger, its existing skin becomes too tight, necessitating a new, roomier layer underneath. Younger snakes, experiencing rapid growth, shed more frequently than adults, sometimes every few weeks.
Shedding also maintains the snake’s skin health and integrity. The outer layer of skin can become worn, damaged, or scarred due to environmental factors. Replacing this old skin with a fresh layer ensures the snake’s protective barrier remains effective. This renewal helps preserve the skin’s functional properties, including locomotion, moisture retention, and camouflage.
Shedding also serves as a natural method for parasite removal. External parasites, such as mites and ticks, can attach to a snake’s skin. When the old skin is shed, these organisms are dislodged and discarded. This helps prevent infestations and contributes to the snake’s hygiene and health.
The Shedding Process
The shedding process begins internally as a new layer of skin forms beneath the old one. A lubricating fluid develops between the two skin layers. This fluid helps separate the old skin from the newly formed skin, aiding a smooth and complete shed. The presence of this fluid can cause the snake’s skin to appear dull or hazy, and its eyes may become cloudy or milky blue.
As shedding progresses, the fluid between the layers is reabsorbed. This causes the snake’s eyes to clear a few days before the actual shed, though the skin may still retain a dull appearance. Once the old skin is separated, the snake initiates the active shedding phase. It rubs its snout against rough surfaces like rocks or branches to create a tear in the old skin, usually around its mouth.
Following the initial tear, the snake continues to move and rub against objects, crawling out of its old skin. This often results in the old skin peeling off inside out, similar to how a sock might be removed. A healthy shed results in the entire outer layer coming off in a single, continuous piece. After a successful shed, the snake’s new skin appears vibrant, and its eyes are clear.
Recognizing an Upcoming Shed
Observing changes in a snake’s appearance can indicate that a shed is approaching. One noticeable sign is a dulling of the snake’s skin coloration. The scales may lose their usual vibrancy and appear hazy or muted as the new skin forms underneath.
A distinct indicator of an impending shed is the clouding or bluing of the snake’s eyes. This occurs because a transparent scale, the eye cap or spectacle, covers the snake’s eyes instead of eyelids. Fluid accumulation between the old and new eye caps causes this milky or bluish appearance, temporarily impairing the snake’s vision.
Snakes also exhibit behavioral changes when preparing to shed. They often become more reclusive, seeking secure and humid hiding spots. Some might become more irritable or defensive due to impaired vision and vulnerability. A decrease in appetite or refusal of food is common during this period.