Need some help....

[L.West]

My 1,200 gram Male Mojave has always been the most calm/easy going snake I have. Lately, whenever I open his tub - he immediately gets into stricking mode - like he is waiting for food. I feed him every week, he can't be hungry. Is this normal behavior or is my sweet docile snake becoming aggressive??

Anyone every experience this - please advise.

Thanks.

[Freakie_frog]

It's a snake for starters but it sounds like you're just triggering the "Holy Crap a freaking Huge Predator" response..

[L.West]

He just never used to do this. Is there a right way to disarm him. Is there something I should do before trying to pick him up.

Thanks

[myanney]

I've had this happen as well- I usually just withdraw my hand, but stay standing over the tank so he has time to realize it's just me. Usually when I try again after a few seconds, he's ok. I haven't been tagged yet, hope you don't get tagged either but if it happens it happens...snakes can be unpredictable.

[myanney]

Oh, and if you REALLY don't wanna get bit, try using a snake hook instead of your hand. Or use gloves he can't bite through.

[steveboos]

Yeah make sure you have no rodent smell on you, cause even my sweetest snake will lunge at me if food is near. As long as you just go in and pick him up fast and calm, he shouldn't tag you, but if he does, no big deal. Just wait a few minutes and try again.

[L.West]

Thanks everyone for the feedback - I just wanted to make sure that his actions were normal.

I get the impression that he thinks whenever I open the tub that I am coming to feed him and he is just eager. He is an excellent eater so I cant complain about that.

[Jeo123]

Yeah, easiest way to solve that problem is with more handeling.