Handling Question

[racer500]

I have read that ball pyhtons dont bit much because they are constrictors. But almost every time i put my hand in the cage it strikes at me. It has only bit me once, but is always striking at me. What do i do to stop that?

[daniel1983]

How long have you had the ball python? Have you given it the proper 1-2 weeks to settle in? You have to remember to a snake that is unfamiliar with you...all you are is just a giant preditor. They usually settle down in time....Is it eating properly?

[racer500]

i have had it for four weeks, and it just ate its first meal during this last week.

[amg20102006]

I trid posting but it didnt work thats strange. Maybe daniel and I where posting at the same time.

[daniel1983]

I trid posting but it didnt work thats strange. Maybe daniel and I where posting at the same time.

He made multiple posts with the same thread....you may have posted in the other thread the same time that it was deleted

[daniel1983]

i have had it for four weeks, and it just ate its first meal during this last week.

I would get it eating consistantly first....then worry about handling. A ball python will not eat if it is stressed. One of the main ways to reduce stress is to not handle. Once it has eaten for a few weeks, then start handling. If it stops eating, stop handling.

Baby ball pythons can be nippy when threatened, but they are usually 'alot of talk and no action'. It should get better with time as it gets used to you reaching in for cleaning and slight handling.

[Shelby]

To help your ball python settle in, make sure it has proper temperatures (92 warm side and 82 cool side) and lots of nice tight dark places to hide. It helps if you take some newspaper and crumple it up, and put it in the cage, as it makes the snake feel more secure.