Spring is here and that means snake mites are on the rise!
You've heard that snake mites can be spread by introducing an infected snake into your collections or by picking up hitchhikers at expos or events but did you know snake mites can find their way inside your homes from outside?
Don't worry if you're home is in a dry area. Mites are not able to survive outdoors for long periods without moisture. But if you live in a humid area such as East Texas like we do, take extra care this season.
Cut down any brush outside and consider treating the land if you live next to any forested areas. Do not immediately handle snakes after spending time outdoors. Quarantine yourself after performing activities such as gardening or lawn care. Above all, increase routine checks for pesky mites.
If you have mites, do not worry.
Treatment is simple and easy.
Remove all substrate from the enclosure and spray with low impact solution such as reptile spray. Do not drench and never allow it to pool. Always use the spray as per instructions.
If one tub in a rack is infected, likely all of them are infected. All tubs in a rack need to be treated and the rack needs to be quarantined.
Treat snakes for at least a 6 week period. Snakes can be bathed immediately and then weekly if infestations are large. If using dawn dish soap, make sure there is no detergent or harsh chemicals and wash your snake down after soaking. I wouldn't bathe my snake unless I see at least 10 mites actively walking around on my snake.
Mites will generally feed until they are ready to lay their eggs. They will spend almost their entire time inside the scales of their hosts. When it's time to lay, they will detach and attempt to find a moist substrate such as bedding or wood to lay their eggs in. If you have removed the substrate and used reptile spray, they will dry out in an attempt to find a suitable location to lay.
Do not use oil based treatments for mites such as coconut oil or vegetable oil. It is absolutely unnecessary and the oils can interfere with the snakes ability to shed its skin, resulting in stuck shed and scale rot. Some people have posted videos using oil and some vets seem to recommend it. We do not recommend using oils to kill snake mites even as a last resort option due to the risks associated with scale rot and stuck shed.
With Grace,
Calvary Exotics.
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