My ball python has a head spot and periscopes more after shedding. Why?

Question

My 5 year old female ball python just finished shedding, and there's a white spot in the center of her head. I think she lost a scale there but I'm not sure. :( Her shed was good, came off in two pieces. She is also periscoping significantly more and she shakes when she does it.

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Periscoping is normal. Most snakes do it when hungry or if curious or I in an object. "Stargazing" (staring straight up, nose pointed upwards) is of concern and may indicate serious viral infection. The lost scales may have been due to low humidity during her latest shed. You can gently clean the spot with dilute Betadine solution or chlorhexidine. A thin film of triple antibiotic ointment can be used if indicated. She should heal up fine. If it does heal or begins to spread, have her examined by your herp veterinarian.

My ball python has a head spot and periscopes more after shedding. Why?

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