Another question

[raaland]

I was wondering about body language. I took my little BP out earlier for 2 minuteds to check on him. (This is when I noticed the white spot on top of his head) and he balled up like typical but then he raised his head and swayed back and forth. While his head was up I lowered him back into the tank and he scurried back to his hiding place.

Ok my question--body language how do you read your snake? I have always had mammals and been intrigued by snakes. The reason I got a ball python is because I subbed in a science class and the class had a ball python which was about 5 years old. It was a very nice snake and now I have my own science class I thought this would be a perfect "class pet." But I am unable to figure out the body language.

I am going to leave him alone until Wednesday when we have a Vet appt--I was going to put him in a plastic tub with holes for breathing to go from my place to the vet and back...Will he be okay with out heat during that time?


Just named my bp...Cooper

[python.princess]

that'll be fine for traveling to the vet. as for body language, if they curl up in a tight ball, they're prolly nervous and not sure what's going on. mine haven't done that in a couple years... regular handling should get him used to you. if he sorta balls up and he pulls his head back real fast, you prolly spooked him. make slow, calm movements till he's comfortable with you. if his neck is coiled and looks like he might spring, he just might try to bite if you spook him anymore. i usually take this as a hint to put him back very carefully. we figured out that if they start getting REALLY squiggly, put them away, cuz they just might need to poop! lol! good luck with cooper!

[MelissaFlipski]

For the vet visit, you can always turn the heat on in your car to be sure he is warm enough. I'm paranoid, myself, and took a heating pad on low in the car when we took our BP to the library for a kids' education presentation.

As far as body language, it's best to be cautious at first. It will take time to learn it. But generally, if they ball up, they are afraid/shy/don't want to be handled. But they usually stop doing it after getting used to handling, unless they really don't want to be handled.

Also, don't handle for 48 hours after feeding. If Cooper wants to communicate and you find yourself hard-headed, I am sure he will speak louder - with a hiss, balling, scurrying away, etc. I'm sure he will learn about you while you learn about him. It gets easier as you get to know each other.

Have fun and I hope the kids love him!

[raaland]

Thanks for the replies! I actually lied-I decided instead of stewing to check on Cooper again this evening around 8pm--he was a lot better--active and not so shy. I picked him up and he didn't ball up but he was a bit jumpy when my roommate had him--both of us move to fast hahaha Anyway he seemed calmer this evening and again only held him for a about 5 minutes just to see how his mood was.

Thanks again...I am excited to get to know him better!
R