Just Stressed Out?

[Devil]

So, the FedEx truck brought my new little spider to my home yesterday! But, one thing that I noticed is that he's... really, really defensive. He bit me three times when I was taking him out of his package and placing him into his new home. Not that it hurt really bad or anything, but it did draw blood. (Sharp little teeth on him!)

And, another thing, every time anyone goes anywhere near him, (within eyesight) he immediately goes into a striking position. (He even struck the glass a few times, poor baby. Looked like it hurt him a little.)

I was wondering if that's normal for new shipments or what? Because I was planning to take him out tomorrow, but with his current attitude, I might wait until Saturday... Or Wednesday. (I'm going to see if he'll eat on Monday.) Also he's worrying me because I've never heard anyone have a problem with that. :/ I'm probably just being paranoid, but... Better safe than sorry, right?

If it helps any, I got him from RoyalConstrictorDesigns, which I'd heard was a great place to buy. (And it was, Azazel's a pretty little guy, and looks healthy too.)

Sorry if this is a really dumb thing to post, I'm just kinda... I dunno, I'm just concerned. :/

[LLLReptile]

Give him at least a full week before attempting to handle him at all. It definitely does sound like the usual stress associated with being shipped, and should go away with time.

I personally wait until a snake has fed twice consecutively for me before beginning to handle them.

-Jen

[Devil]

Okay, thanks! I'll wait and see if his attitude improves!

[Emeraldtail]

Im in the same boat as you kinda, my shipment ('12 female mojave) arrived last week and the poor thing is acting terrified. Be careful, give them time, they'll calm down.

[brobertson]

It shouldn't be an issue for more than a few weeks, tops. I got my first little boy from Garrick as well, and he behaved almost exactly as you described. After two weeks of time to himself, Monty was calm as can be. Plus, he turned out to be a monster eater! Best of luck with him!

[Devil]

Sounds like I'll wait until he's eaten a few times before handling him! Thanks for the answers!