Quote Originally Posted by Ginevive View Post
My female blood was kept on newspaper, in a tub, by me for a few months since I got her. I put her briefly into a tank with coco fiber. She buried into it, and got really, REALLY NASTY when I went to remove her. She was literally like a different snake; really nasty.

I set her back up into a tub with newspaper last night. Now, I went to remove her, and she is just fine. No S-curve.. nothing.

Maybe the substrate caused it? I have no other explanation. But I am definitely keeping her tubbed on newspaper from now on.
What do you mean "S-curve"?

Have you monitored the humidity level with both coco and newspaper? It's more apt to be in the high range with coco and more apt be in the low range with newspaper. Using cypress mulch (high humidity) I have always found the shedded skins in one whole piece, a good indication. They just burrow in it and come out the other side like new, with the intact skin under the mulch.

Your experience sounds like she was in feeding mode. Instinctually they burrow in substrate while lying in ambush:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJ522jlkM2k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvXkrwfVlGI

Keep her on newspaper if you wish, it's more convenient, cheaper, easier to keep the housing clean, and keeps them easily exposed and readily available for showing (esp if no hide is used). Collectors are more likely to use newspaper vs the casual pet keeper/hobbyist.

Which do think snakes would rather have? Try it and see for yourself. Assuming her housing is large enough, line half her cage with newspaper and half with substrate. The proof is in the pudding.

I have 8 snakes (2 within the last 24 hours ). All kept separately in tubs ranging from 10 gallons to 60 gallons and all in cypress. Removed daily for handling and feeding. Cages tapped first then opened after a minute. Just knocking on the door, letting them know I'm coming in. Calmest removed 1st, least calm removed last. They have come to learn what to expect. If parts of their body (not head) are visible thru substrate then start with that to remove them. If not, or if merely the head is exposed, then start a few inches under the substrate opposite the head. Creatures of habit they are and will adjust. The process takes time and so is not feasible for collectors.