The Shedding Process
Pre-shedding Signs: Before the shedding begins, a snake’s skin becomes dull, and its eyes might turn a milky blue or white, a condition called ‘in the blue’. This is because a lubricating fluid forms between the old skin and the new layer, causing the eye’s protective scale (spectacle) to become cloudy.
Shedding Phase: Once ready, the snake will often rub its nose against a rough surface to create an initial tear, then wriggle out of its old skin. Using objects in their environment, they continue to slough off the old layer, often in one continuous piece.

Factors Influencing the Shedding Frequency
Age: Younger snakes, as mentioned, shed more frequently due to rapid growth – sometimes as often as every few weeks. Adult snakes might shed several times a year, depending on various factors.
Health and Diet: Snakes in good health, with consistent feeding, might shed more regularly. Conversely, an unhealthy snake or one with a compromised diet might shed less frequently or display irregular shedding patterns.

Problems with Shedding
Incomplete Sheds: Sometimes, snakes might not shed their skin entirely, leading to pieces of old skin remaining attached. This can occur due to low humidity, health issues, or inadequate surfaces for the snake to rub against.
Retained Eye Caps: If the protective scale over the eyes doesn’t shed, it can lead to vision problems. Multiple retained eye caps can build up over time, severely impairing vision.

Assisting a Snake with Shedding
If a snake doesn’t shed its skin entirely, it might need assistance:
Bathing: A lukewarm water bath can help moisturize the old skin, making it easier for the snake to shed.
Humidity: Ensure the snake’s habitat has the appropriate humidity levels. Adding a humid hide filled with damp moss can provide the snake with a microclimate to aid in shedding.
Safe Handling: If manually removing old skin, one should be gentle to avoid injuring the snake. It’s also essential to ensure the underlying new skin is fully formed.