Can Adult BPs adjust to handling?

[theJuju]

I know baby balls can become comfortable with human contact, and eventually "like" it to a degree. But my allegedly 2 year old BP from Craigslist I got about a month ago does nothing but try to burrow in my clothes. He'll try to run off and find somewhere dark, but if there isn't anywhere, he tries to burrow in me (not head shy at all!). Eventually he seems to give up and just chill.

Over time, will he grow accustomed to handling? I don't think his previous owner did much of it.

[Mike41793]

I definetly feel it would be possible for him to calm down. By the behaviour your describing it sounds like when you handle him he gets really stressed and tries to hide. Maybe if you wear something like a hoodie and let him hide in the pouch it would calm him down a bit and he could just sit in there but still be getting used to the human contact. Idk if that would even work, just a thought. On the other hand he may very well never calm down and you just have to love him for who he is haha

[angllady2]

If I can teach an imported ball human contact is a good thing, I think you can teach most any ball.

Start off slowly, like you are. Give him a place to snuggle and hide, if that is what he wants. Be calm, patient and persistent and I think he'll come around.

Gale

[Domepiece]

They can adapt pretty easily. You should just be thankful hes only trying to burrow and get away and not bite you (balls generally arent aggressive but they are out there). I got a 6 year old breeder female around 7 months ago and she tried to kill me everytime I went to pull out her tub. However she has now calmed down alot and I am able to take her out and hold her now, still dont trust her all the way though. Good Luck, you shouldnt have a problem.

[WingedWolfPsion]

Actually, hatchlings are generally a lot harder to tame. I personally don't even bother until they're at least 6 months old. Sounds like the snake is just scared. Just go slow, be gentle, and patient.
They never like being handled, but they will come to tolerate it.