Can I start handling my ball python yet?

[x45kylekatarn]

I got my BP 10 days ago, he's eaten for me twice (takes f/t like a boss), and seems to be pretty happy (hiding and occasionally poking his head out before slithering back into his cage seems pretty happy for a snake), so I was wondering when I could start handling him. I'm feeding him again in three days. Should I wait until after then, or is it okay to take him out now? He's a mojave, incredibly beautiful, and fairly calm. I got him from a reptile pet store who has merit where I'm from, they breed their own BPs and morphs. Here's a picture of te cute little guy. I don't have a hatch date on him, but he's a 2013 baby. When is the window of hatching for ball pythons?


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[rlditmars]

Sure, you can handle him today. Go for it. Just start off with shorter intervals and work your way up. Also, it is better not to handle them for at least 24 hours after feeding to prevent possible regurge. Enjoy!

[CORBIN911]

You can handle whenever you like BUT I usually wait till they have taken 2-3 meals WITHOUT trouble. Then without a doubt hell be comfortable (10-15 days at 5 day feeding intervals) after 3rd meal wait 24 hours and boom make him a nice braclet. i say this bcz i broke my baby lavender spiders eating habbit by getting her down 1 meal, held her for 3 weeks she didn't eat, so i left her completly alone.

[Tigerhawk]

Yes you should be fine. The above advice is right on the money.

[NH93]

Pfft.
Good job for waiting that long!! I know lots of people who are just so excited they cave and take them out way before 10 days I did that with my first (corn) snake...
I say go for it. Sounds like a solid eater!
For the suggested time to wait when acclimating a new snake, I have heard anything from 3 days (less common) to a week (most common) or 3 consecutive successful feedings (mostly for ball pythons).

Use your judgement for signs of stress and whatnot.

All the best, and congrats!

[sho220]

Pfft.
Good job for waiting that long!! I know lots of people who are just so excited they cave and take them out way before 10 days

guilty...

[x45kylekatarn]

He feeds almost like a kingsnake, haha.


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[CORBIN911]

guilty...

Oh we all are, Whenever i get a new gem to collection i like to handle for a bit while i set up new tub to help remove the "Itch" of holding them it helps....Sometimes. But if i do hold and they decline a meal, i will leave alone for min 3 feeds!

[x45kylekatarn]

Well I handled him, and found out he had a pink belly so kept it pretty short, he seemed fine and calm though, beautiful snake. I'm looking forward to our lives together!


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[NH93]

Well I handled him, and found out he had a pink belly so kept it pretty short, he seemed fine and calm though, beautiful snake. I'm looking forward to our lives together!


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Pink belly is either from a shed (yay!) or too hot of a hot spot/burn (boo!). I hope you know which it is!

All the best