Scale coming off with shed

[ratsncorns]

I had noticed a couple weeks ago that my little motley guy had a bad scale right in the middle of his head. It looked as he had been rubbing it, so it went almost a dark brown color. I figured it would heal when he shed next. I had no idea the entire scale would come off with his shed! Is this common with a healing scale? That they just grow a new one? Do I have to do anything special with him? I figure I should just let it heal on its own.

You can see the gray spot where the scale should be

And here is the scale still on the shed skin

 

[scottsquatch]

don't know

I can't say whether it will grow back or not as I have never seen anything like that or have I had it happen to one of my own snakes. I would think that your snake will probably be just fine though, as I'm sure they encounter rougher scrapes than that in the wild. On a hunch, I would also bet that the scale will eventually grow back although I won't guarantee it. :shrugs: If it worrys you, you can always put a dab of triple antibiotic ointment (neosporin) on the spot where the scale is missing. Hope that I have at least set your mind at ease a bit. Good luck.

 

[jazzgeek]

To add to scott's post, if you intend on using an antibiotic ointment, it's best if you also use plain paper towel or newsprint substrate; aspen and "shavings" substrates (and/or their dust) will invariably end up on top of the ointment.

Good luck.

regards,
jazz