When to handle new Ball Python?

[Dracoluna]

Honestly, it depends on the person and ultimately the snake.

When I sell a baby to a new owner (first time snake owner), I tell them to let the snake settle in for at least a week. They can offer food the first day but don't be disappointing if it gets turned down. If the baby doesn't eat the second time (5-7 days later) then continue to not handle it until it does because this signals that the snake is still stressed. If it does eat, wait about 24 hours and then you can begin to handle them. Really, it all depends on the snake and how quickly it can adapt. Once you have more experience with them, you'll recognize signs of stress, etc. faster than with your first one and can afford to take fewer precautions.

For example, my corns probably could be handled on the trip home, the first day, while they're eating, and not care. Ball pythons are a little more sensitive, however, and I've noticed that since getting into them. I'd still rather have people take all precautions though especially with their first snake.