Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey,

I have a pair of four month old western hognose. They eat well(unless they want to skip a meal here and there), are active, and generally seem to be in good health. My female is ~10" long 12 grams and the male is ~10" long and is up to 14 grams (he eats more regularly than the female). I keep a very detailed log on genetics(mom & dad and what morph they are), DOB, feeding schedule, weekly weight reading, shed dates, and current photo.

My question is since I have had them they have not shed once(since September 4th). I don't know if it is something I am doing wrong or that they just don't need to shed. I would not usually be concerned but while holding the male the other day I noticed some of his belly scales looked worn down like he was gripping a rough surface. Any suggestions or theories?

I keep them in 10 gallon aquariums with wire mesh lids. Under tank heating for night warmth and a lamp for day heat and basking (if desired). Both lamps and UTHs are controlled by thermostats and take a daily reading with a laser thermometer(paranoid). Day temp mid 80s night temp mid 70s. Cage carpet under the substrate and substrate is cypress mulch. Always keep their water clean and fresh(no more than a day old). I spot clean after they defecate and replace the crater with a fresh handful of mulch.

I would appreciate any wisdom anyone can give on my little ones care and health and if I can change anything for the better.

Thanks,
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Thomas M. Marcy
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Madison, AL
Computer Scientist
Hognose Enthusiast

Thomas, It sounds like you have everything under control and it's just a matter of time before they shed. Shedding is a hormonally induced function triggered by growth. If the hoggies are growing and gaining weight, shedding is inevitable. You can't put 100 lbs of potatoes in a 50 lb sack. Now, if you said they went opaque two weeks ago and haven't shed, I may be concerned. I had a hognose that failed to shed, and his skin was rather dark and shiny. I soaked him in warm water and provided a rock for him to slide against, and he did the rest.

Wendell

Thanks Wendell!

No, they are not trying to shed. I do give them a rinse/swim and dry every now and then just to make sure they are clean and well exercised.

I have natural sandstone rocks(sterilized) in their cages to facilitate shedding, climbing, and basking.

So taking in your info should be only a matter of time before they shed. If you think of anything else I would like to know.

Thanks,
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Thomas M. Marcy
--------------------------
Madison, AL
Computer Scientist
Hognose Enthusiast

Hogs dont shed as frequently as other snakes. I have had young females close to double in body weight without a shed.