Striking question

[Willie76]

A snake is a snake. Period. If someone told you they never bite, they're lieing or haven't been exposed to many BPs. Many pet stores are notorious for bad information (not all, but many). They are still wild animals but 99.9% of the time even the most nippy young BP usually tames out very well with time and patience. BPs and most wild animals strike for one of two reason: 1) Fear or 2) Food. You're doing so many things right. Looks like your over-all husbandry is good (though did I miss a thermostat to regulate the UTH? I read you got a thermometer to read temps, but a thermostat is not optional when it comes to heat mats or any type of heating element).

It is a good idea to let them settle as everyone has pointed out and to try and get him to take a meal or two before you start handling him. It is NOT necessary to take him out of his enclosure to feed. BPs do not become cage aggressive if you feed them in their cage. This is a total myth. Most will attest they feed their BPs in their cages. You're more apt to get bit and stress him out moving him back and forth to feed (my experience early on). As far as prey sizes, 10%-15% of their body weight. So you'll need a scale which reads in grams and can be had at any office supply store or even WalMart...

Prey Size Chart


Handling
I have dealt with plenty of nippy snakes: BPs, Carpet Pythons, Olives, Kings, etc...I actually enjoy the challenge. But you have to remember patience and confidence are the key. Start with 5-10 minute handling sessions every other day (except feeding day). After a week or two, move to 15-20 minute sessions every other day. After another week or two, work up to 30 minutes every other day. When you go to pick him up, remember to pick him up from the middle, not near his head, and not from his tail. Be confident. If he strikes, continue to pick him up. I promise you...the tag of a small BP is nothing. He may draw a drop or two of blood, but the striking action is scarier than the actual bite. If you're truly terrified to get bit, throw on some gloves and a long-sleeved shirt until you can pick him up without him tagging you. And if he tags you while holding him, continue holding him and remain confident and calm. The more he sees his strikes do nothing to you the more he will trust you. In no time at all, you'll have a BP that you can take anywhere...

BPs and snakes in general do not train like cats and dogs. They develop a trust with you that you won't eat them or won't hurt them. My Spider female BP was one of the nippiest BPs I have ever seen. After a few weeks of handling she tamed right out. Today, when I open the glass, she literally crawls into my hands and wraps herself around my arm. She trusts me and if I didn't know any better, she enjoys being held (silly girl!)

I hope this helps. I am not preaching, but sharing my experience. I love the challenge of the nippy ones and to see the fear disappear and that trust develop is priceless!

GOOD LUCK!