Quote Originally Posted by doganddisc View Post

I don't like to be surprised so I think what I'm more afraid of is the "strike" than the actual bite. But you're right- I'm sure once I get used to it happening, it won't be a big deal.


Here's a question- my boy does ball up when I go to grab him. Is he still capable of biting as quickly in this position or does balling up prevent him from having as fast of a reaction? (Am I in the clear if he has balled up?)

Thank you!!
If they are properly balled (head in the coils) then there really is no way for them to bite. But if the snake just retreats back to an S shape, they still could bite. I usually tap them on the head and then pick them up right away. I don't give them the chance to strike. I've only been bitten once and it was because I was removing an uneaten rat from the enclosure. It was much more surprising than painful. Actually, there was no pain that I can recall. Just surprising. But after feeding 5+ snakes for the last few years, I am used to the sudden strike. You will get used to it and it won't be so scary