Unscheduled Shedding

Question
I got a little BP earlier today. S/he was fed (in front of me) about 15 minutes before I purchased her/him. S/he was showing no signs of being about to shed, except for possibly the -tiniest- sheen to the scales. From when I had my redtail, I estimated s/he'd probably shed in three to seven days. Granted, my redtail was eight feet, and this little one is only a little over a foot and a half.

I was sitting and watching tv, but happened to glance over and noticed something sticking out of the hide. S/he'd shed. It was a complete and neat shed, in only two pieces. Is it possible that the stress of being rehomed caused her/him to shed early? Also, there was the tiniest bit of blood on the substrate. S/he wasn't bleeding from anywhere I could see.

I just want to make sure that all is up to par. This is my first young snake and I'd rather be safe than sorry.

Thank you for your time.

Answer
hi jessi,

right before the actual shed takes place, it can be almost impossible to tell that a snake is about to shed. the dullness goes, the blue tinge to the eyes dissappears and this is completely normal. this usually happens the day before. i dont know whether stress can induce a shed, but more often than not stress will cause an incomplete shed, so in your case stress probably wasnt a factor.

as for the blood, it may have been from the mouse if it was fed in the tank. if not, check your snake thoroughly for any damage. if there isnt any, keep an eye on your snake. if more blood appears you will have to take it to the vet, as it may be a sign of parasites or bowel infection.

thanks for your question, hope this helps,

Andy