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Why did my pet snake (ball phython) get mites2007-11-24 2:04:47Answers:

Ectoparasites: Mites and Ticks are the most usual blood 鈥搒ucking Ectoparasites (living outside the body) associated with snakes. A mite infestation can be regarded as serious, as mites can often multiply to large numbers in the enclosure in large numbers before they are even noticed due to their size. It is important to understand that mites do not always stay on the Reptiles. They will frequently hide in crevices in the enclosure and come out at night to feed. Mites will suck out the blood of the snake through the softer skin between the scales. If mites are allowed to multiply they can cause problem such as stress, shedding problems, anemia, loss of appetite and eventually death. They also can transmit blood pathogenic organisms from one reptile to another. One way to tell if you have a mite infestation is the white flecks (mite feces) that can be seen on the snakes. We use black knight, Prevent-a-mite and Reptile Relief to treat all incoming snakes followed by three month quarantine period before they are introduced into our collection. The items listed are not all used on the snakes; they are used in conjunction to eradicate and prevent mites. Some breeders use powders or sprays with pyrethrins or a 5% Sevin 庐 dust to kill mites and ticks. I do not like to use Pest strips; they can be very toxic to your snakes if not used properly.

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He had them when you bought him. Mites are a common problems with snakes..Here is what to do. Find some Vapona Stripes (sold in hardwares, etc as a moth repellant) and cut it into pieces and put them in a pint canning jar.. get two jar rings and one lid, then cut a screen circle to fit the jar ring ( so the snake doesn't come in contact with the stripes.make sure you wash hands well also after handling Vapona) then put the jar with the screen capped lid and Vapona in the cage for twenty four hours, remove it then cap the Vapona with a regular lid to prevent evaporation of the chemical.so you can re-use it. Some snakes change disposition by inhaling Vapona so be a little careful as the snake may strike at you..repeat in a few weeks and you can eliminate the problem entirely. Your can buy DriDie but Vapona is better and faster. I've kept hundreds of snakes and this is my suggestion.

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dear marciewot,