I absolutely adore my boa. They are definitely much different from the balls though. I've been bitten by him when I first got him, and he has a little bit of an attitude even now, but once he's out he's so awesome. Always on the go and curious, just wants to explore. They can be more nippy as babies, but they grow out of it quickly. Just like anything else, it takes time to get them used to their new homes and enclosures. Just be patient and it'll be well worth it