Getting used to a Ball Python, need tips.

[Bogertophis]

I've touched him a couple times, both times he didn't show any aggression but instead hid his head, and when he did I left him alone. I am more scared about the shock of being bit than the pain, as itll scare the heck outta me.

Back to this situation: a ball python hiding his head when you touch him is just afraid. Personally, what I would do in this situation is to briefly "pet" him lightly mid-body, then gently pick him up with my hands underneath his body & cuddle him close to me for a while so he can learn that he's not under "attack". Don't try to force his head if he still "hides"- just be patient & supportive.

Please don't panic if he finally looks at you either. Just keep in mind that snakes rely on their instincts to survive, & in the wild, the only thing that normally picks them up is a predator that's about to EAT them. He has every reason to fear you.

So please remember that you aren't the only one that's scared of being bitten...so is your snake! You have a lot in common, so try to relax and communicate that to him by your touch. If you wait for him to bravely look at you before you try to handle him, you might be waiting a very long time, as this (hiding) is what's "working" for him...each time, you've been going away, lol.