Patience, for sure. It's unusual for BPs to be nippy, but some are- and like you said, it's combined with hunger too.
For snakes that are literally afraid of us, it can help to cover them with a small towel while you hold them for at least 30 minutes- giving them time to get used to your scent & touch, while being unable to see you or bite you for being "scary" to them. In time, if you do this, most snakes learn to feel safe (hiding under a towel) while learning to recognize us by our scent & touch, so that when you finally start letting them peek out, they aren't so apt to bite you.
You'll still want to keep your movements slow & your hands UNDER her as much as possible, while she get used to the idea of you being so close & yet not being a threat to her. I'd say it's very possible that her previous owner wasn't all that nice to her either- pity snakes can't talk- she may have been teased or handled roughly- assume she has reasons for her opinion of you so far & try to forgive her & help her get beyond her past. I think she will, in time. I hope so.
Whatever you do, remember she's not "mean" or "aggressive" but just defending herself.It's up to you to show her she's finally safe with you.
Reply With Quote