Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've got this gaboon viper that doesnt seem to want to shed its skin. I suspect laziness. Anyway. I placed her in a pillowcase with some wash cloths and then put her in some warm water. She got all the skin off of her body but she still retained all the skin on her head. Of course it has to be the skin on the head.

Anyone got any ideas on how to get it removed without becoming a venom receptacle?

I guess this is one thing you did not think of before buying a venomouse snake....... Also you may want to check the humidity level in the cage..... If kept the right way they should never have a problem with shedding...... Ok here is a trick for you that has worked 100% for me in the past...... Get some tape.... Nothing too sticky...... Take the tape and roll it up so the sticky side is facing out...... Secure that on the end of your snake hook and just touch it to the unshed skin...... Might take a few times to get it all but it works..... This is also a great way to remove eye caps...... Good luck.... Let me know how you made out......
Gregg

That is great advice. I'm eager to try it. Although I can't help but feel a little offended. It almost sounded like you were scolding me in your opening statement. Like you thought me irresponsible. I took all things into consideration when purchasing my first venomous snake. And I still do. Even these issues. Thats why I tried the pillow case trick. Which worked quite well. It just left the skin on the head. So I came to these forums seeking advice. Thats why these forums are here. For the exchange of ideas and information.

If this isn't the case and I'm just being too sensitive then I apologize and just disregard what I'm saying. In either case, I appreciate the help. I'll let you know how it goes.

I only said that because it is a common thing that can be overlooked....... Sorry if you took me the wrong way..... There are lots of tricks in this trade and I have no problem sharing them........ Talk to you later.....
Gregg

Sorry, just ignore me then. Sometimes its hard to tell who is being sincere and who is being sarcastic or rude. I've tried your advice with scotch tape but it didnt work but a little bit. Should I try a more heavy duty tape? I've got the humdidity at a great level. I'll get it eventually.

You've got to be really careful with stronger tape- you can damage the eyes. I have a contingency plan for this sort of thing, but since I haven't actually had to do it yet, I probably shouldn't give advice.
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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

Please tell me the gaboon is not your first venomous snake...

OK, the gaboon viper is not my first venomous snake.