Unlike mammals, which shed hair and skin cells gradually over time, snakes shed their outer layer of skin all at once in a process called molting. This even includes the clear scales covering their eyes!
Here is what happens before, during, and after a snake sheds its skin.
How Often Do Snakes Molt?
The frequency of shedding depends largely on the snake’s age and nutrition.
- Young snakes grow much faster than adults, so they need to shed more frequently to accommodate their increasing size.
- Adult snakes have slowed their growth, so they shed less often.
- On average, most snakes shed their skin four to eight times per year.
Phase 1: The “Blue” Stage (Pre-Shed)
Before the skin actually comes off, the snake goes through a physiological cycle often called being “in the blue.” This inactive period lasts about one to two weeks.
Signs that a shed is coming:
- Dull Appearance: The skin loses its luster and becomes dull or faded.
- Cloudy Eyes: The eyes turn a milky, opaque blue. This is caused by fluid building up between the old and new layers of skin to separate them.
- Behavioral Changes: Because the cloudy eyes severely reduce their vision, snakes often feel vulnerable. They may become nervous, hiding more often, or acting more aggressive than usual.
- Loss of Appetite: Most snakes will refuse to eat during this time.
Phase 2: The Shedding Process
Interestingly, the snake’s eyes will actually clear up, and its color will return about two to four days after the shed happens. Once ready, the snake begins the physical work:
- Loosening the Skin: The snake seeks out rough surfaces—like rocks, branches, or roots. It rubs its nose and mouth against these objects to break the skin loose around the lips.
- Crawling Out: Once the head is free, the snake crawls forward, rubbing its body against rough objects. The skin peels off inside out, rolling down the body from head to tail, much like pulling off a sock.
- The Result: A healthy shed should come off in one complete piece. Because the shed skin is elastic, the discarded “skin” is often slightly longer than the snake itself. You can even see the pattern on the inside-out skin!
Phase 3: Post-Shed Care and Health
After shedding, the snake’s appetite usually hits its peak, and it may drink large amounts of water to rehydrate.
The Importance of Humidity
Humidity is the most critical factor in a healthy molt. Snakes generally prefer humid areas during this process because moisture lubricates the skin.
- Healthy Shed: In a healthy, well-hydrated snake, the skin peels off in one perfect piece.
- Unhealthy Shed: If a snake is sick, malnourished, or kept in an environment that is too dry, the skin may come off in ragged patches.
Reference: Slanger og sånt – Bjørn Ormstad