I would agree with the rest of the commentary in this thread. I only have two bloods--an adult female normal and a sub-adult albino male. My male was wirey when I first got him, but he hadn't been handled much by the previous owner. It took a while to tame him down, but he's never tried to strike. At times he can still be a bit loosey goosey, but never defensive. I find that he actually responds well to firm handling. Not restraining him, but more like giving him the feeling that he's solid and secure. My female is a total pushover. She's mellow all of the time--at home, out on school display, out of her cage, wherever. As others have said, a big blood is definitely a cradle-style holding exercise. It just feels correct to do it that way, supporting their weight evenly.

Mine are both head tame, too. I can gently rub their heads without negative reaction, and they often push their heads through my hands while moving around. On the other hand, my ball and woma pythons won't tolerate head touching. Go figure.

I know this sounds ridiculous, but I think snakes can sense fear or apprehension in us. I go into every interaction with my snakes confidently, yet observant of their disposition. I also make it a habit to at least touch my snakes every day. I think all of this projects calmness and familiarity for them. They seem to relate to consistent, predictable behavior in us, just as we want the same from them.

All four of my pythons are a joy. Super pets for me.

Good luck with your blood!

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