The owner may note black parasites in the snake's water bowl, a white powder on the skin (the mite moulds and faeces) and long periods of soaking. Visual inspection of the skin may reveal mites (the engorged female is the most obvious stage - see [[Snake Mite Life Cycle]]). The most common sites for mites are the gular and periocular regions, labial pits and commissures of the mouth. On the body, the ventrolateral aspect (scale rows one and two) is often colonised. Skin lesions range from very mild to severe. Mite feeding is irritating to the host and causes oedema and erythema. Clinical signs include dysecdysis often with retained spectacles, anorexia, weight loss and lethargy. Very heavy infestations may result in anaemia, dehydration and death. | The owner may note black parasites in the snake's water bowl, a white powder on the skin (the mite moulds and faeces) and long periods of soaking. Visual inspection of the skin may reveal mites (the engorged female is the most obvious stage - see [[Snake Mite Life Cycle]]). The most common sites for mites are the gular and periocular regions, labial pits and commissures of the mouth. On the body, the ventrolateral aspect (scale rows one and two) is often colonised. Skin lesions range from very mild to severe. Mite feeding is irritating to the host and causes oedema and erythema. Clinical signs include dysecdysis often with retained spectacles, anorexia, weight loss and lethargy. Very heavy infestations may result in anaemia, dehydration and death. |