So I've had my pastel male for 2 weeks now when to hold him for the first time today. After I picked him up, carful to support his body and not to close to the head, his body became very stiff and pulled his head back into the "S" striking position. I only had him out about 30 secs when he struck with I believe a closed mouth at my hand. He didnt hit anything and it happened so fast that I didnt jump. At this point I sat him in my lap so that he wouldnt feel like he was high up and hopfully feel more secure. Now he ate friday morning so I waited the 48 hrs before handling but Im wondering If the one mouse was not enough. I do not have a weight on him, but he is six months and I gave him one adult mouse which seemed like the right size. As a new snake owner it kinda took me by surprise to get stuck at the first time ever really holding my snake. Just wanted to see if any of you have any ideas on what to do or how to approch it different. Thanks for the help.

Chris