How to accustom an adult ball python to handling?

[Hugsplox]

Two things.

1. I wouldn't use the hook to take him out. That can create pressure points and hurt him. I would use the hook to let him know you are there and not feeding him. You can tap him or gently rub him a few times to get that message across.

2. Gentle and repeated handling should get him used to it. Start with 1-2 minutes for a few weeks (2-3 times a week), then go to 3-4 minutes, and then to 5-10 minutes.

Most snakes do not "like" being handled, and BP's are prone to stress, but he should adjust with repetition and being gentle with him.

This^^

The only thing I would add is when I go to handle any of my snakes, I wait until they're out. If my hognoses are buried in the substrate I don't dig them out, if the BP is in a hide, I don't go in after him, I wait until they're out before I try to handle. If they run from me, I leave them alone and try again some other time either that evening or another day.

Remember that handling is for our benefit and not the animal's, they don't mind if you never touch them. So you want to make the process has stress-free as possible for them. Like dakski said above, he should adjuster with repetition, and you being really gentle with him. Be sure to support his entire body and hold him close to your body to help him feel secure.