question for KLG...

I am really interested in getting a Blood in the near future. I know you have definately worked with a large number of these snakes.
My question is, how is their temperament in general? I know that every snake is different, but I have read a lot of text that says bloods are pretty defensive and nippy. I was just wondering, overall, how are the temperaments of most young blood pythons you have worked with? Thanks..!

Babies are generally pretty defensive & nippy until they figure out you're not going to eat them. Some calm down after 3-4 handling sessions, some take a bit longer. In my experience, a month of gentle, consistent handling is usually all it takes to get a little blood to simmer down into a nice, calm captive.

K

I held one at a petshop, and it was REALLY calm, it tried to get away, but it wasn't defensive at all. I am asking for it for christmas.

I can't wait to get one. I figure it'll finish off my collection; I do not want to get more herps than I can care for!

I dont handle my STP nearly enough (once a week usualy) and hes still quite easy to handle. He always trys to get away initialy when I first geta hand around him but after that he settles down. One thing I do hate, and I dont know if they all do this , is when he gos backwards wich makes him dificult to handle. I find though that a gentle touch on his tail sends him in the right direction though :P

I hope you get one Ginevive.

A few tips Ive found from personal experience/ suggestions.

1. Dont try to handle your STP when theres even the slightest scent of rat in the room, these guys have a realy keen sense of smell, from what I can tell, and get realy excited about eating (they love food).

2. I tend to feed at night and handle during the day, my snakes seem more lethargic in the day time and easygoing, nighttime I save for feeding.

Thanks for the good advice. I plan on getting a Blood in the next couple months.