Why do snakes shed their skin?

With help from ERIN ARNASON

The ability of snakes to shed their skin in one continuous piece is a fascinating characteristic of these species. Shedding is a regular and lifelong process of removing aging skin and replacing it with healthy new skin. Snakes usually shed their skin 4 to 12 times a year, with younger snakes shedding more often than adults as they grow. Adults will also shed before reproduction and after giving birth. Did you know that snakes aren’t the only species that shed their skin? All animals — even humans! — shed their skin, but because many animals shed their skin in tiny pieces, you can’t see it happen as easily as you can with snakes.