Why Snakes Shed:  Nature is a fascinating phenomenon, with numerous animals and numerous unique characteristics, driven by years of evolution. Some have the longest tongue in the world, while some have three eyelids. One such reptile is known to shed its skin; why it does so is an uncommon fact. However, it is important for the survival of these often poisonous reptiles. These reptiles are snakes, according to the Reconnectwithnature.org. 

Why Do Snakes Shed Their Skin?

Snakes shed their skins because their skin doesn’t grow with their bodies. Unlike humans, whose skin grows and regenerates in small scales all the time, snakes have a hard, non-growing outer layer of skin which doesn't get larger as the snake grows in size over time. When snakes grow, they shed their hard outer layer of skin periodically. This process of shedding skin is known as ecdysis or moulting to allow for their greater body size. This shedding is necessary for the overall development of skin, as the old skin will eventually get too tight and no longer fit.

Snakes shed their skin a few times in a year, depending upon the age, species, health of the snake, and conditions around them. Younger snakes shed more often than adults because they grow more quickly. Before shedding, the skin of the snake can look dull and the eyes cloudy or bluish because fluid accumulates between the old and new layers of the skin, temporarily affecting vision. Snakes will tend to seek safe locations to hide during this shedding time until the shedding process starts.

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What Are The Key Advantages Of Skin Shedding For Snakes' Health?

Shedding is a key aspect of a snake’s life to maintain its health. Shedding skin helps snakes to remove their old, worn-out, or damaged skin. Additionally, shedding skin also removes parasites like mites that can have got onto the old skin. Shedding skin also helps snakes minimise their chances of getting an infection and keeps their skin healthy. Surprisingly, shedding also causes minor wounds on the snake's skin, which heal and rejuvenate later, but give a camouflage effect that makes this reptile look more attractive.

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How Snake Shed Its Skin?

The snake begins shedding its skin by rubbing its nose against hard surfaces like rocks or tree trunks to make a hole in its old skin. The snake then presses itself against surfaces and sheds the old skin in a single piece, just like you are removing a sock. Skin shedding may take a few minutes to several hours. All in all, snakes shed their skin for growth, health, and to maintain good skin condition, which makes shedding skin a critical and interesting part of a snake’s biology.