I agree with SmoothScales. The biggest mistake I see of novice keepers is overhandling. Ball pythons stress easily, even if they don't express it by lashing out like other snake species do (e.g. they are more inclined to freeze or ball up than bite). When I purchase a snake, I generally block off the front of its tub with something opaque (a blanket, piece of cardboard, whatever is handy) and don't mess with it for a full week. After the week is up, I offer a small meal once nighttime falls.
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