I don't think it has to do with intelligence. Ball Pythons (and most snakes) generally get by by instinct. Some will be more accommodating when it comes to their food, and others are more picky. I have (and had) some that were very particular in how they were fed. If they didn't get a good grab of their head and nose, then they quickly gave up and I would have to reintroduce the prey or they just wouldn't eat. The best way to feed these picky eaters is to warm up the nose of their prey and try to get them to grab their head. Sometimes it's difficult as they don't usually have the best aim, but it's all you can hope for. If they get a bad grab and drop the rat, just pick it up with tongs and try again. Eventually they'll get a good bite and finish it. Remember, Balls will eat based on scent, temperature, movement and the feel of the prey item. Some just focus more on the feel than the other aspects.
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