I have had this snake for about 3 days. At first he, I say he even though I haven't the faintest clue, is very submissive and easily startled. When I clean up the droppings or replace the water, he either retreats to his hide or just curls in a ball. But now, almost every time I even approach the cage, I recognize that defensive coil in his neck, he has already snapped at me 5 times, from within the cage. And on one hand I figure he is stressed out and very upset. But on the other I am concerned that maybe he is just always angry/scared. I don't know what to do and it doesn't help when the people at the pet store, even though they claim to own snakes, give advice that goes against books. They tell me to handle him everyday and let him get used to the attention. While the book I am reading, The Ball Python Manual says to allow to the snake to acclimate to the area for a few weeks and to wait until he feeds a few times before handling him. I'm just afraid because I have never felt so lost. I literally know nothing about this, and need a lot of help. I obtained this snake from a friend who had it for literally one day two nights. It’s a 10 gallon tank, 1 hide, and 1 water bowl, and I just bought a heating pad for the bottom, its by Nature’s Heat and I bought it because I am concerned about the temp drop at night. Snake is around a foot (+/- 2 inches) if I had to guess. I plan to replace the set up in December, any advice is greatly appreciated. The reason I am so concerned is for the snake, I want him to be healthy and happy. Thanks Again anything that anyone can contribute would be appreciated. I will post pictures in the pictures forum. I have read a few guides already but still feel a bit unsure, thanks.