Woop, BPelizabeth, that wasn't directed at you (hope that was obvious), you posted while I was writing.

I think it's just too easy to fall into the human tendancy to place emotional significance on the actions of our reptiles where there is none. I was watching my Sudan Plated just a few minutes ago after I cleaned and filled his water bowl, and he came out of hiding, drank some, and then watched me intently. It was like he was saying "thanks! I was thirsty". In reality, he was probably deciding whether or not I was a threat, but I would like to think he still appreciates it.