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Lethargic King

22 15:30:52

Question
Hi Paul -

Hoping that you could enlighten me on what might be an issue with my Grey Banded King.
The snake is about year old (best I can tell) and about 2.5 feet long. I noticed the other day that it has started a shedding cycle but not actually shed. Anyway, I was wondering if they become lethargic during this process? The first 3 weeks I brought it home it would move all around the cage but now it just sits in one corner and doesn't move. Could it be trying to hibernate? The aquarium is a steady 80 degrees F.
I also notice when I pick it up it sounds like she is emitting little sneezes.

Thanks for any guidance you can provide.

B

Answer
It's hard to say exactly. Kingsnakes do become less energetic during their shed cycles, as well as during the winter months. However, if you are hearing little sneezes then it probably has a respiratory illness. You should take him to a reptile vet immediately to avoid it getting any worse.