Snake stressed?

[Dboknight]

I'm new to snakes and I have a ball python that I'm afraid I may have stressed.. I bought it for my daughter (who won't touch worms when we're fishing but will hold a snake.. Go figure ;-)..) and we didn't handle it much for about a week.. However now it doesn't want to really come out of its hide.. Is this normal? When we handle it Slithers he is very active but he doesn't move around much in the cage.. Day or night.. Looking for any good info.. Thanks

[Jt balls]

This is very normal. Try to Handel him two or the times a week and in a few weeks he will b more used to u. It is key not to b afraid of your snake. But once you have him in ur hand they will calm strait away and become inquisitive this is the active behaviour u speak of.


Joe Tully

[NH93]

Totally "normal". A saying around here is, "A hiding python is a happy python." Snakes don't need social companionship, and are pretty much afraid of being eaten. They need to feel secure and hidden. Time, and clutter in the vive - more hides, fake plants, etc. - will usually get them to come out more.

[Dboknight]

Thanks.. Just want Slithers to be as happy to be here as we are to have him..

[Slim]

In very broad terms, it's the BP that constantly roams it's enclosure and won't stay in a hide that's the stressed out one.

[Mephibosheth1]

Totally "normal". A saying around here is, "A hiding python is a happy python." Snakes don't need social companionship, and are pretty much afraid of being eaten. They need to feel secure and hidden. Time, and clutter in the vive - more hides, fake plants, etc. - will usually get them to come out more.

Usually I say "a hiding ball is a happy ball"...but some people
think that sounds weird lol

Also, congrats on the snake, and you've come to the rigt place to ask your questions

[Dboknight]

I appreciate all the info and the prompt responses.. Will get some pics as soon as he quits hiding..lol.. Thanks again