What are the "Signs of Stress"

As a new owner, just curious about an signs your BP is stressed? I would guess not eating for a long time. Also, I would think hiding for a long time, or hiding in an unusual location?

but as I read and learn more, Im thinking our new baby BP is "well adjusted" because she's so active and seems to have a great personality. but maybe she's stressed?

A little embarrassed to admit now, that we bought her at a pet store. (sorry, Im learning a lot- but whats done is done, and we're trying to do our best now- in hindsight, I would have gone through a breeder) We picked her because she was so "outgoing & curious"- she didn't ball up in my daughters hands. They seem to have a natural bond.
Anyway, since coming home, She's been active in her cage, exploring. Her routine seems to be up for a few hours in the a.m.--then sleeps, then up for a few hours in the later evening, Then again asleep when we go to bed. (obviously not sure what she's doing in the middle of the night lol)

Yesterday was the first time she slept in a hide out. (she had been sleeping behind it, or under some of the greens or log in there) After reading how everyone says the hide-outs were so important to them, I wondered if this was another "stress" sign. Or maybe she doesn't like the hide-out?

Just curious... As I said, just soaking in all the knowledge I can on our new friend.

Thanks
lisa

Usually a hiding ball-python is a happy ball python. She is probably stressed if she is roaming her enclosure constantly. It is common for them to be more active in the evening and early morning because they are nocturnal. A good hide for a ball python is one where they can fit in it snugly and be almost entirely enclosed in it, obviously they need to be able to get in and out of it.

This care sheet is good to look at to make sure her temperatures, humidity and enclosure set-up are good.

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...s%29-Caresheet

Not sure how long you have had her for but it can take a little while for them to get used to their new home. Other than the basic husbandry and if she is eating well for you then her behaviour is probably due to her personality. It sounds like you are an attentive owner, so soon you'll get to know her behaviour and her routines and you'll be better able to determine what her "normal" is :)

Hope this is helpful for you :)

Hi,

It actually sounds as though she is starting to settle in fine. :)

It's not uncommon for them to be wary of their hides for a little while until they are sure they are "safe" and sleeping all day is what ball pythons are all about. :rofl:

She seems to be active at the times we'd expect etc. Just make sure to let her settle in with no interruptions and then try and feed her once she seems happy.

The important thing is not to panic if they do not eat right away - sometimes things need a little tweaking.

One of the best ways to avoid stressing a new BP is to limit handling to only what is necessary for husbandry (cleaning etc.) until they have eaten at least two times in a row. Then start with short handling sessions. If she continues to eat well, you can gradually lengthen the time you're handling her.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Slim

One of the best ways to avoid stressing a new BP is to limit handling to only what is necessary for husbandry (cleaning etc.) until they have eaten at least two times in a row. Then start with short handling sessions. If she continues to eat well, you can gradually lengthen the time you're handling her.

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Thanks for all the advice everyone! This may be the toughest "rule" for my daughter- she's just crazy for her new friend. :please: but we'll try to keep ourselves restrained :)