There's nothing to be nervous about! The first thing I notice is snakes that are usually out at some point during the day aren't out. I'll think, hey, I didn't see Choco last night. Then when I check on him, he'll be blue. Blue means the eyes usually are a fairly light blue color, the belly is light gray or blue, and the whole snake is sort of dull. This lasts about a week. Then, it all clears up and the snake looks normal, with clear eyes, and you think you've missed the shed, because you can't find the shed skin, but you haven't! The snake sheds within 48 hours of turning clear.
You can try to feed him when he's blue- it won't hurt anything. Either he'll eat eagerly, or just not be interested. Once you find out, then you know what to do next time. Some of mine eat when blue- most I don't bother.
It's ok to handle him when he's blue, but I think it's more respectful not to. At this time, a snake naturally hides because his defenses are lowered. Their instinct is to hid away until it's time to shed.
Once you know he's blue, you can make a moist hide for him, which he may or may not use. You can lightly mist the inside of his viv to keep the humidity up. After the first shed, you'll have a better idea of what the humidity level is going to be like, and if he sheds ok, or if you need to take stronger humidity control measures next time. If he doesn't shed completely, don't panic- someone will be here to give you advice.
Nanci
