First Snake (Colombian Boa Imperator)

[Bogertophis]

........
As for hook training, in the beginning of my research, I was certain I would start immediately. But again, after reading forum posts and asking around, it seems like people have decent luck without the hook a fair amount of the time. Maybe it falls down to the individual snake? Not sure. So, I may get into it. For right now, I kind of do the same thing with my hand. I tap the tub lightly to let him know I'm there, then I talk to him for a minute or so. Finally, I come in with my hand low and slow, touching his side and back away from his head, very softly. After about 10-15 seconds of that, I scoop him right up. Has worked thus far, but I know one thing, if I get tagged I will definitely be changing my mind.

I had a BCI for many years- she came to me as an unwanted yearling that changed hands many times (for biting!) & I never hook trained her, so you're absolutely correct that it's not essential. You have good instincts already- I can tell from what you've written. BTW, I never got even one bite from that boa- but at first, when she wanted to, I didn't give her the opportunity, & then after I worked with her for not more than 2 mos. she no longer felt afraid & therefore didn't want to bite me or anyone else- in all the years I had her. No bites- that's my goal too.

The key is communication- making sure you don't startle her (just as you're doing) & give her time to recognize you (scent & touch mostly) so she feels safe- that's really what reassures a snake- that you're not some unknown predator. FYI- when I took on that yearling boa, I'd hold her on my lap wrapped in a towel for 30-60 minutes at a time, so she had time to learn my scent and touch, while "hiding" under the towel- then I gradually allowed her to peek out & see "the big scary monster" that was holding her. Up until then, she'd had bad experiences with people & bit them just out of fear, because they never took the time to just help her feel unthreatened- they were too pushy. Good "snake manners" will get you happy, mellow snakes.

In later years with that BCI, every now & then she'd be off somewhere in her thoughts & hiss, a big HUGE hiss, when I wanted or needed to take her out- like to clean. But even then, I didn't use a hook- why would I, when it was my hand's touch she knew? She remained coiled & I'd just reach in & gently touch her coils- not "in her face" but the other side, & every time, after a few minutes, she'd stop hissing & I'd just pick her up. She was always fine, which was a good thing because she was pretty big...

Congrats on your first snake- I hope you have many happy years with yours too.