Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hello everyone. I'm a new snake owner. I purchased a male and female ball python. They r both about 6 months old. I just got them in yesterday. My question is how long before I tshould try to start holding them? They both buried themselves in the substrate and when I tried to pick them up they both started striking at me. I'm not afraid of holding snakes but at the same time I don't wanna get bit. How long does it take before they become more tame and how should I go about taming them? Is this normal? Thx for the help. Excuse my ignorance. I want to be a good owner and do the right thing.

Jj

I would give it around two weeks to adapt to there new environment, also find out if the original owner used substrate. yw

I always wait one week or even two then feed and wait another week before handling.If they dont eat I dont handle them till they have fed well and digested for at least 2 days to prevent a regurge..Usually if they are eating they are feeling more comfortable.
Another thing is invest in a snake hook or make your own.I touch train all my snakes.They know if I touch them with the hook Im picking them up.With upset angry snakes a hook is essential.Once out of the cage they usually mellow out.They just dont like that hand coming at them, its scary.