True or False: A snake preparing to shed its skin may be easily injured, or become stressed, during handling.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not applicable
• D. Only with venomous species

Answer: (B)

During shedding, a snake’s old skin loosens and becomes fragile, so handling can easily tear or abrade it. The process often clouds vision, making the snake harder to see clearly and more likely to feel exposed or stressed when touched. This combination of delicate skin and a heightened stress response means injuries are more likely and the animal can become defensive or reactive to restraint. Because of this vulnerability, handling should be minimized during shedding and, if necessary, done with very gentle, full‑length support. So, the statement is true: a snake preparing to shed may be easily injured or stressed during handling, and this applies to more than just venomous species.