Scales and skin of shed snakeskin, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). This is the shed skin from the head region of a royal python (Python regius), also known as a ball python. As the body of the snake grows, its skin does not, so, approximately every 4-6 weeks, a healthy adult snake will shed its skin. As well as being important for growth, skin shedding in a snake can help to remove harmful parasites. The scales are made from keratin and act to protect the snake from predators as well as provide an environmental shield. Magnification: x24 when printed at 10cm wide.