Snake Handling

[Forked Tongue]

Is it possible to handle a ball python too much? I am new to snake ownership. I do know I like putting him on my belly while I am working on the laptop or watching tv. He curls up and falls asleep or lays outstretched sleeping. I let him crawl around my neck or in my hair. He doesn't seem upset, or sick. He eats just fine 1/wk, seems not to mind.
Txs.

[Muze]

Yes. it is possible to stress out a BP due to too much handling. I would keep the sessions short (10-15 minutes). Keep in mind that they also need to stay within their comfortable temperature ranges.

This is not to say you should not handle him. By all means, enjoy the little guy. Just don't stress him out.

[hoax]

There are people more knowledgeable then me on the subject. If the snake has a place to hide and stay warm (i.e. under your shirt) and they are not showing signs of stress, trying to find a place to hide, trying to get away, refusing food, being bitey, or acting out of the normal. Now you do need to have you snakes long enough to know what the signs of stress are. Each snake is different, what is good for my snake might not be good for yours. Once you learn the stress signs it will make it much easier to handle your reptiles safely.

Mike

[blackcrystal22]

I would keep it once a day for 10-15 minute increments..

Also, don't hold for at least 48 hours after they eat. :]