If it's biting and nervous, you definitely want to let it be for a week or so. Just make sure to keep an eye on temps and keep fresh water avail. I have always fed in the enclosure and have never had any issues. That's really a personal preference that probably doesn't need to be debated again. If it's your first snake, we have a caresheet avail here..http://ball-pythons.net/modules/Sect...warticle&id=59