Bite and constrict?

[TheBallPython]

Hello,

I haven't yet gotten my BP,but I was wondering of the likelyhood of a bite and contrict? I know that getting bitten, or "tagged" isn't uncommon, but I was wondering how many have actually been contricted by their BP? And if so, is it hard to get them off?

Thanks,
Brittney

[Elise.m]

The reason most people just call it tagged is because that's what they do. They just "tag" you really quick, and you barely even notice it. I haven't had this happen, but I'm looking forward to my first "kiss" from my BP, which I should be getting soon.

From all the bite threads that have been going on lately, hardly any BPs actually constrict when biting a human. You have a better chance of seeing them latch on than constrict. I've read that when they do latch on, running warm water over them will commonly get them off.

[TheBallPython]

Thanks! I was just curious in case it did happen. I also read something about drinking alcohol, but I can't imagine that would be good for the snake?

[h00blah]

since u havent gotten one yet, i suggest looking for a nice one that is more interested in looking around. when i went to the expo in san diego, it seemed that the ones that were most shy are the ones that are prone to biting T.T while holding some shy ones, i put my hand in front of their face (like a good 6 inches away" and they went into strike position (tight neck, s-ish shaped) lol.

[aff19802]

If upset for some reason they will tag, but its usually cause there upset or definsive... they relize that your way to big for pray... if they are upset try grabbing them from the back and letting them know your there and not food...

[TheBallPython]

Thanks. I'll remember that when I go to pick mine out. I'm actually not afraid of a bite at all, while it would be perfect to get a friendly one. My concern is, even on a rare occation, I get constricted, that I wouldn't be strong enough to get him off. Should this be a concern if it does happen? That's more what I was wondering, if it happens, is it easy to remove them? Or is it something I should worry/think about? Sorry for so many questions, best to have every question answered.

[Elise.m]

I've heard that if they do constrict, either run some warm water over their heads, or try to uncoil them, and they'll start to let go. I think the only time you'll have to worry about not being strong enough to get him/her off is if they're an adult. I'm assuming you're going to get a baby.

[Twisted Reptiles]

Don't spend too much time worrying about constriction. If you get tagged and they constrict its very unlikely that it would be around a body part you need to worry about (ie. neck) immediate harm. More likely the hand, arm, etc.

But, in the event that it was a dire situation...a life and death situation, there are obviously some sure fire ways to get them to let go. Not something you need to spend time worrying about as as long as you respect your snakes its not something you're ever likely to encounter.

[Elise.m]

Here's a good video to show about bites and constrictions. it's not a ball python though.

YouTube - Steve Irwin Greatest TV event. Rare Snake Bite. Sunshine TV.

[bads15]

a full grown ball will only weigh in the 4 pound range. if you can pick up a one littler jug of milk you can remove a ball python. if you grab them from the tail and just unwind them they will let go. be careful not to hurt it in the process. i have never heard or seen one try to constrict a human other than when your holding one with one hand. then they will tend to wrap around your arm to hold on. so that they don't fall off. the same goes for your neck. my adults can put enough of a squeeze to knock me out when rapped around my neck but it would never happen since i just readjust them as needed. i'm usually more concerned about hurting them then getting hurt myself.