i had the same problem when first got my BP. First thing is to ensure the health of the snake and make sure its eating. Wait a week from the last tim you tried to feed it, try again, and if it eats wait an additional two days and then try to handle it. It sounds like it's just under alittle bit of stress and it's understandable for snakes of that size to be alittle nippy. When you finally do start to handl it, it may take awhile for it to get used to you and stop acting so defensively. Let the snake establish a level of comfort and security and be well fed, and you should have a good relationship.