The single thyroid gland is roughly spherical and enclosed in a connective tissue capsule. It lies just cranial to the [[Snake Cardiovascular System|heart]] and ventral to the [[Snake Respiratory System|trachea]]. The thyroid, which is under pituitary control, appears to play an important role in [[Snake Shedding|shedding]] and growth. Accidental [[Lizard and Snake Surgery|surgical]] removal of the thyroid may increase [[Snake Shedding|shedding]], which is the reverse to [[Lizards|lizards]]. In some [[:Category:Snake Species|species]] it has been reported that thyroid extract administration inhibits moulting. | The single thyroid gland is roughly spherical and enclosed in a connective tissue capsule. It lies just cranial to the [[Snake Cardiovascular System|heart]] and ventral to the [[Snake Respiratory System|trachea]]. The thyroid, which is under pituitary control, appears to play an important role in [[Snake Shedding|shedding]] and growth. Accidental [[Lizard and Snake Surgery|surgical]] removal of the thyroid may increase [[Snake Shedding|shedding]], which is the reverse to [[Lizards|lizards]]. In some [[:Category:Snake Species|species]] it has been reported that thyroid extract administration inhibits moulting. |