Quote Originally Posted by Bogertophis View Post
Personally, I prefer not to wake up a snake to handle. Sure, they might be more groggy but it's a LOT scarier to be awakened suddenly. If you've ever been suddenly awakened to a stranger standing next to your bed, you'd know what I mean, & why it's not a good idea for the snake.

As far as your snake getting "very lively" once he's in your hands, that's just his instinctive reaction to being caught & restrained by a large predator & thinking he's about to be your dinner. Maybe you're holding him a little too tightly? I'm not saying to let him fall, but just keep a softer touch- hands on his mid-body, & not holding his neck, or touching his tail. That's another reason it's best to take your time- sit down someplace soft, & relax while handling your snake- if you're tense, how can you expect him NOT to be?
Yeah I know it's bot polite to wake him up but I don't know how to take him if he isn't curled up and calm.
When he id out at night he is very aware and cautious. I am worried he won't let me take him out without a hassle when he is in the open and stretched out over the enclosure. Since this is his hunting time I am worried he will be more defensive and more eager to stand against me.