As far as handling tips go, consistent, short, positive handling sessions are a good way to build rapport. Try to establish a schedule with your snake in which you handle it approximately the same time each day. You'll want to skip a day after feeding of course, but otherwise if you can stick to a schedule at first this really seems to help.
Try to end each handling session on a positive note, with the snake either sitting calmly...basically you don't want to put an upset snake that has just struck at you back in its enclosure, or you'll just condition it to equate striking with going back home and being left undisturbed. Keep the handling sessions short & sweet at first - 5-10 minutes - and add time as you and the snake get to know each other.
Good luck w/your new addition!
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