Sinestra, the hypo jungle

[Jessibelle]

First of all QUEENS In the house!!! LI now but a lot of queens history here and through my family so welcome and cool to see!!!

Second... what a pretty snake! That fresh shed looks lovely and her color pops!!

You already got some great advice from the Boa Boys above!! I'd listen close and carefully as they know a thing or two for sure and have and always do help me a lot with my boas...

You have to find a hook method that works for you, there are a variety of ways.. some like to tap areas prior to. I just use the end of the hook to rub /nudge them a little and get them moving and alert that it is me and not food. Once they sort of "snap out" of the food mode I go from the hook to my hand on a back side and a few strokes... Then its a quick and confident pick up and you are good to go.

I agree, start now, no time like the present. It is all a muscle memory and repetition thing so just do it every time, one way and stay with that way and they know and learn fast.

P.S. - I also find light and time of the day plays a big role. If you get them used to feeding at night lights out and handle during the day or keep lights on in the room prior to getting them they seem much more relaxed and out of hunt mode. Both of my boas get very feisty and defensive at night. I don't even bother trying to handle my caye caulker at night or if the lights have been off, she is up in her branches coiled and waiting, I am not going in there at that point, hook or not...

Haha, I was born and raised in Florida, but I have lived in LI, Brooklyn, and now Queens! Queens is a great place to live and I'm really enjoying it! Thank you for all your advice!