Why reptiles shed skin

While shedding their skin is part of a snake's growing process, it has another purpose as well. It helps remove parasites that could harm the snake, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Before a snake sheds its skin, it begins to look somewhat bluish in color and its eyes look opaque or clouded over, because the newly formed skin will cover its eyes, according to Washington State University's Ask Dr. They can't see well during this time, so they sometimes find a safe place to hide out until they begin shedding. Snakes start the process of shedding their old skin by rubbing against a rock, tree or similar hard surface, Ask Dr.

Universe reports. They typically rub a spot by their snout, so they can then slip out of their old skin by wriggling against rocks, plants and similar surfaces.

Some snakes are able to shed their skin in water. After a snake sheds its skin, it is left behind, and sometimes people find the skins. The skin is obviously evidence of a snake that is or has been nearby, but the skins also show a lot of detail, including the scales and where the snake's eyes were. You can even sometimes determine the species of snake from its skin because of banding patterns and other visible markings.

Shedding skin is normal in the animal kingdom. In fact, all animals do it, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. However, most animals don't shed their skin all at once like snakes do. Snakes and all reptiles shed their skin as they grow.

It is one of the characteristics that all reptiles share. Here is an explanation of why and how the different Rocky Mountain reptiles shed their skin. For all animals, molting is the process by which they get rid of or shed old feathers, hair, or skin to make way for new growth. Birds molt on a regular basis to keep feathers fresh and change their coloring. Mammals routinely shed their winter coats to grow their lighter weight summer fur that is not as heavy.

You can facilitate the process simply by providing rough rocks and branches in their enclosure. Just as good nutrition makes your skin healthier and more balanced, so it is for your scaly friend. Good health makes the shedding process go more smoothly.

Know that many snakes refuse food when they are shedding, though lizards may be more inclined to eat during a shed. What matters if consistent nutrition, not what they eat while shedding. Stress can inhibit the shedding process. After your herp is done shedding, remove the skin from the enclosure and throw it away. Some lizard owners like to help along the process by pulling off the raggedy pieces of skin.

Iguanas, for instance, shed their skin in patches rather than one big piece like snakes do.