Hello,

I just got my first ball python 1.5 weeks ago. He's 2 years old, and eats well, based on the 1 meal I've given him thus far. I've taken him out a few times, and each time I've just let him slither around on my arms. He seems comfortable being handled. He moves slowly, and flicks his tongue. I want to give him the opportunity to explore if he so desires, but with all of the small pets I've had (dogs being the exception), I'm anxious with letting them go too far. I usually set up parameters so they aren't able to get somewhere I can't reach!

I'm worried he will quickly slither away into a vent or something! I know BPs are not known for speed, but I guess I am just asking more experienced owners: how do you let your BP explore and "stretch out their spine" for lack of a better term without worrying about them finding a hard to reach place to hide? I don't plan on leaving him attended, but if possible, I want him to get to explore without me hovering over him, ready to grab him at any second. There are a lot of things he can slither behind or under in my house!

Thanks in advance!