Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have owned my first snake for about 1 1/2 weeks. She is a kingsnake and I haven't even been able to feed her yet because she has started to shed right away. Her eyes have been cloudy and her belly has been a bluish color for about 3-4 days. Is it normal that she is very lethargic? How long does this process take? She is my first snake and I am in love with her. I've had her for such a short period and this is freaking me out. I made a little box for her that I put damp paper towels in every day and she lays in there all day and night. Is there any thing else I should know or do? I'd appreciate any advice I can get.

All is well. You don't need to freak at all. Your snake's eyes will seem to clear up very soon. Then, within a few days, it will shed. You are helping out with the moist area. Your snake will be just fine. Also, you will probably be surprised how good it looks after it sheds. Enjoy and...Don't worry. Duffy

ps...After it sheds, and you feed it, make sure you leave it alone for a few days of peace and quiet since it is new. Always better to give them a few days of r & r after a meal anyway.
And, yes, it's normal for it to be very inactive as it prepares to shed. It can't see well at all, and has no desire to go exploring.

The snake does have a dry place to hide, right? Just checking. My first snake was a king too. They're very good at handling stuff on their own and I'm sure it'll be fine.
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"The serpent crams itself with animal life that is often warm and vibrant, to prolong an existence in which we detect no joy and no emotion. It reveals the depth to which evolution can sink when it takes the downward path and strips animals to the irreducible minimum able to perpetuate a predatory life in its naked horror."
Alexander Skutch

Yes, The two boxes are identical, she just seems to prefer the one with the paper towels. Thanks for your help.