Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just purchased a western coachwhip about 1 week ago. I handled him at the reptile dealer for 3 days straight and he was as calm as can be and the dealer said he was the most docile cw he's ever seen. He stayed calm for 2 days after I brought him home and loved being handled. After a couple days, he strikes whenever I try to take him out. Any advice?

I also need some advice on lighting... uv or no uv? Since they are desert snakes, I assume uv. Heating bulb also?

Actually i just use a houshold light bulb for mine. Snakes generally dont need uv like the lizards do. They do just fine with a heat source. All i can say is that he must have gotten scared coming home with you or something. He will calm down once he sees you are not gonna hurt him. If he still acts up I will take him off your hands if you dont want him. THANKS, WILLIAM H. AND THE GREEN PINE MUSEUM.
Green Pine Museum Website

I agree with the last post. Being exposed to a new strange enviroment can be enough to make it defensive. Give it time to settle and move slowly and carefully when handling.
I am not a fan of constant light though. It is not necessary (prefer bottom heat) and can also make a snake feel exposed and vulnerable. You might want to try a hide box. My racers/whips tend to like to peek from secure places till they get used to things...Frank

Thanks for the advice. I'll let you know how it works out.