If you are handling him for the first time then do it a couple days after feeding. You know he's not hungry! If he is in the hide then tap the top of it to let him know you are there and then just pick him right up. Don't be nervous and slowly pick him up. Just go and get him with no hesitation. If you are nervous then you will make him nervous! It is rare for a ball to bite when being handled! I have not been bit yet!