Baby Ball Python is lethargic, Possible Shed?

Question

Hey Everyone,

I have been referring to Yahoo answers for a TON of python information, and finally I found a question that didnt have an answer.

So here it is, I bought a baby ball python in Mid July (Its end August now). He/she eats VERY well, no problems. However I fed him/her this last saturday (as normal) and I noticed the next day he/she isnt as active as normal (i.e. Climbing up the tank, the limb, exploring). He/she just seems to sit in the hide all day and night, not coming out, also very jumpy.

From what I have read it sounds as if he/she is going into a shed (which hasnt happened yet, nor has defecation.)

Snake appears healthy, but has no signs of milky eyes, or dulled skin color, pink belly but I am wondering if lethargy is the very first stages of a shed before any other signs appear, I also havent taken him/her out since about the 2nd day of lethargy, figured a shed was gonna happen and the snake appeared pretty timid.

Humidity is 50-60% without Misting.

Temperature is 78-80 with UTH (Heat lamp is not currently being used).

Last Feeding was 6 Days ago.

No milky eyes, pink belly, dulled skin (that I have noticed)

I just want to confirm that this is most likely a shed and not something of a more serious problem. Snake appears healthy with no swelling. Thanks guys.

Answer 1

Lethargy could and is probably due to your temperatures, they are way too low. Rely on a digutal thermometer and rise his hot spot to a good 88-90F, with a cool side of 82-85F. At night, temperatures can go a slight bit lower, but you should always provide a spot of 88F, use a red bulb at night if you must. 76-80 degrees does not provide the amount of heat for your snake to digest properly and could cause problems.  

Answer 2

ya it probably is just a shed wait a couple more days and check if theres any signs of shed if there isnt then ask another question about it  

Answer 3

photo period (day and night) is important as well as day and night temps. like the person above said, the temps should get up to 90 on the hot side during the day. my baby ball python does the same, he goes to the cool side. he will regulate his body when he needs/wants to. just make sure he has a hide on both sides. half of my ball pythons do get lethargic before they shed and the other half doesnt. it depends on the snake. plus snakes just want to chill out and digest after they eat. im not sure if he used to do this but i know all mine do.

just higher the temps and keep photo period and day/night temps in mind. email me for any questions :)

good luck!