Dear Haley,

Snakes and other reptiles shed their skin as part of the normal process of growing. The shedding of skin is called ecdysis and is a complex process. Most snakes shed their skin four to eight times per year. How often a snake sheds its skin depends upon many factors, including the temperature of its environment, how often it eats, the amount it eats and its activity level. Young snakes shed more frequently than older ones because like humans, snakes grow more rapidly in the first few years of life.

During the shedding process, a snake will use any nearby rough objects or surfaces to help shed the skin. Shedding begins with the skin around the snake's head. Once the snake has loosened and dislodged the skin surrounding the mouth and nose area, it then moves between rough objects that can trap the loose skin and hold it as the snake glides out of the "old" skin. Did you know we shed our skin too? Unlike snakes, which usually shed their skin in one piece, human skin flakes off constantly in tiny patches.

Snakes are part of the reptile family and different reptiles shed their skin in different ways. Snakes and lizards shed all their skin at once every once in a while. Crocodiles, alligators and turtles shed their skin in small patches all the time. A good shed (all in one piece) from a snake means that animal is growing well, getting plenty to eat and is a sign of good health. Congratulations, sounds like you have a growing, healthy snake in your yard.

Thanks for your question,
Aubie and Dr. Heatley