Quote Originally Posted by WarriorPrincess90 View Post
I would have to say the opposite with regard to temperament of snakes in a rack system. While I admit a rack is the absolute best option if you want your snakes to positively thrive, all of my animals became more aggressive when placed in the rack system. They are not exposed to any outside stimulation, which is great with regard to their health, but boy when I open those tubs they come flying out looking for dinner! Even the most timid animal I have ever owned changed into a food driven monster in the rack. While that doesn't bother me at all, as I'd rather have an animal that will eat than have an animal that is passive and won't eat, that is something to consider if you are considering switching.

Granted, the rack makes maintaining ideal temp and humidity a breeze, and almost ensures perfect sheds every time, however, a well decorated vivarium with carefully maintained temps and humidity works just fine and lets you see your pet occasionally when they are not hiding under one of their hide boxes. That is not to say that putting your animals in a rack will make them aggressive, but regular handling is important to help avoid general aggression.

That said, your snake does not look as though he wants to bite you in that picture. More nervous and inquisitive than anything. Even if he hisses at you when you go to pick him up, that does not mean he is going to bite. It is merely his way of saying, "Hey! I'm not too sure about this handling thing right now. What are you and why are you touching me?" That will calm down with regular handling. He is still getting to know you, that's all.

Congrats on your new addition and welcome to the addiction!

It seems that a rack system is brilliant for multiple snakeys, but I don't know if I'll be getting any more. I'm always up for researching different things for him, anyway. Anything that'll make his life better!

I don't think it helps that because he's hissed at me, or I've convinced myself he's hissed (it wasn't loud or for a long period of time, just a quiet short noise) I'm a bit unsure, and that's obviously making him unsure! Probably just a case of braving up and going for the (gentle) grab. I've read they'll usually be fine after they're out of their territory anyway.

He just seems to tense up whenever I even just walk past his vivarium, and don't want to be upsetting him too much