Mike Clinton
Introduction: Understanding Blue Eyes in California King Snakes
California king snakes are known for their distinctive patterns and beautiful colors. However, if you are a keeper of these snakes, you may have noticed that their eyes sometimes turn blue. Blue eyes in snakes are not as uncommon as you might think, and they can be a sign of various conditions or natural processes. In this article, we will discuss why your California king snake’s eyes might turn blue and what you can do about it.
Shedding: The Main Reason Behind Blue Eyes in California King Snakes
One of the most common reasons why California king snakes’ eyes turn blue is shedding. Snakes shed their skin regularly to grow and renew their skin. During the shedding process, the skin becomes loose, and the eyes may appear cloudy or blue. This happens because the outer layer of the eye, called the cornea, is also shedding and is replaced by a new layer. Once shedding is complete, the eyes will return to their usual color and clarity. Shedding is a normal and natural process, and blue eyes caused by shedding are nothing to worry about.
Shedding Process: How It Affects the Eyes of California King Snakes
The shedding process in California king snakes usually lasts about two weeks. During this time, the eyes of the snake will turn opaque or milky blue. This is because a fluid accumulates between the old and new skin layers, which causes a change in the way light passes through the eyes. The eyes will remain blue for a few days until the shedding is complete. At this point, the eyes will clear up, and the snake will begin to shed its skin. It is essential to note that during the shedding process, snakes may become more stressed, and handling should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing them.