My pastel male ever since I've had him will hiss, puff up, jolt etc. when I first reach in to grab him. I just stick my hand in there in one fluid assured motion pick him up and then he calms down once I'm holding him. Some of my other shy girls try slithering away when I hold them, but all in all they're harmless. Just a matter of getting used to your snakes body language, good luck.