Behira - 2016 Female Ivory Ghost - First BCI

[dakski]

It seems to me that all snakes that are used to gentle pet treatment respond (or rather don't "respond") the same way. They just don't assume we have bad intentions
when we accidentally bump each other. I know that happens to me now & then- I'll have a snake around my shoulders, getting tangled in my long hair & I'll sometimes
bump their nose (not realizing exactly where they are) when I'm trying to sort it out- they never seem to react or take it "the wrong way". Anger is a human thing.
Sometimes I wish snakes were less tolerant, when people are deliberately abusive....

That's a perfect shirt, Dave.

I hear you; anger is a human thing. However, fear and being startled are universal. I did not expect Behira to bite me after knocking her in the head, but I did feel bad. It startled her. Having said that, she's a sweetheart and very predictable. She really just doesn't scare easily. Once food is off her mind, I imagine it would take a lot to get her scared and defensive, especially at her size now.

I've done the same thing to Shayna, my BP, and she reacts totally different. She coils back and freaks. However, she does that when she bumps her head into my arm when I am not even moving! She's not a defensive animal either, but does scare easily.

If I try to touch anywhere near Shayna's head, it causes a fear response in her. With Behira, it's either go away, or, "Okay Dad, you can rub my chin and head. I don't really like it, but I will tolerate it for you."

I do not make a point of rubbing Behira on the head or chin. However, I sometimes redirect her by blocking her with my hand and pushing her gently where I want her to go. More like guiding her. If I try that with Shayna, she gets spooked, so I have redirect from the body or neck.

I have rubbed Behira's chin or redirected her with my hand to show people who are afraid/nervous around her that she's a total sweetie.

I have a BP, 2 Boas, 2 Corn Snakes, and a Carpet Python who went through the ringer and almost died and is still a sweetheart. They are all calm and I can pretty much trust them with anyone, as long as I am there and the person's behavior is consistent with what they are used to. I believe nurture is a strong component in how snakes interact with people, especially if treated well from a young age.

Love the boa shirt!

Thank you both for the comments on the shirt!

https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...rst-BCI/page32

The bottom of the above page has pictures of the two Boa shirts I got with wording on them. Previously on this page, or the page before, I am wearing my red tail shirt as well.

I got all of them online. If you are interested, I can probably figure out where and let you know.