The other way I look at it (ie. justify handling) is that a snake that is never handled is basically living in fear of what they assume is a giant predator lurking nearby (us!)-
and since (excessive) stress has a negative impact on health for pretty much all living creatures, I want my animals to understand that they have nothing to fear from
me, thru "hands-on". You have to remember that while handling wild creatures such as snakes may not happen in nature, they are also free to hide or flee, whereas we
are holding them captive at a very close distance from us. Putting myself in their place (mentally), I think finding ways to reassure them is helpful, so while they may not
"need" cuddling, it can benefit them because of their captive status. My snakes tend to live long & healthy lives, incidentally.
Originally Posted by Bogertophis
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