If it was a baby blood, I can totally see that happening. Even my one year old looks stressed every time I open the tub. Mine was driven by the breeder a few states away though, I don't believe she was ever on a plane. Sorry to hear about what happened to your little one


I think what others are suggesting is fine for a ball python. Mine usually come pretty toasty already so moving them to a warm enclosure isn't much different than how they were in the box. My latest shipment was actually same day shipping and we picked her up right from the airport. She wasn't in transit for more than 5 hours. It was pretty awesome. If you have the resources to do same day shipping, I highly recommend it!