Too Much Handling of New Ball Python??
First time and new owner of a male albino ball python, that I've appropriately named Ziggy Smalls. He's nearly a year old, and has only been in my care since Sunday afternoon. Prior to living with me he had stayed with his breeder in a reptile room within a 6 quart plastic container, but now resides in a 20 gallon tank with plenty of places to hide, bask and cool down in. After reading a blog post that suggested not handling new snakes until about a week has passed (so they can get used to their new enclosure), I am now afraid that I may have stressed him out by handling him about 5-10 minutes for the past two days I have had him. Should I stop handling him for a week and just let him adapt despite my beginner mistake or am I okay to keep handling him for a few minutes at a time at night?
Additional Notes:
- The last time he has eaten was on Friday afternoon with his breeder, he digested his food and pooped under his care and hasn't pooped while in his new enclosure, which I don't think is an issue. I'll try feeding him this coming Friday.
- Whenever I handle him he's very calm and hangs around my arm and legs before hiding in a tissue box I lay out for him or in my book case amongst my books.
- I understand that handling was a bit rushed, but I wanted to get my two cousins (aged 5) to meet him and not be so terrified of him, it worked, however he does get agitated whenever they are in the room.
- So far he hides and roams around his cage, poking at the mesh top every so often or poking at the glass. I haven't found any concern in this, but have heard about issues with nose rubbing.
All comments and suggestions are welcome! I just want to make sure Ziggy is comfortable and healthy.
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