Unfortunately I have just discovered that my GTP is being plagued and tormented by a whole lot of tiny black mites that will not leave him alone. There are a lot of general questions that I have, such as:

What is the best way to treat for mites? I'm aware that removing everything from the tank for a fine bleach/water solution and/or other disinfectant scrub-down is essential, but what do I need to look for in terms of treatment of the actual snake. Is a trip to the vet necessary or is there a type of medicine/solution used to treat him at home?

Just to satisfy my curiosity - how do snakes acquire these mites? Do they somehow spawn inside of the tank, or are snakes natural carriers and under the right (well, wrong) conditions do these mites appear?

I have a Boa Constrictor housed across the room, and I plan to treat him just as thoroughly as I am my GTP. Both snakes are ready to go into shed - would it be wise to wait until afterwords that I begin treatment?


Thanks
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Adam

"I wish I were wise! I wish I were wise from the heart of me, like my serpent!"

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