Hi
I know that feeling.
Whether it is a lifelong habit I am not sure,but know for a fact that they do use it as some sort of "defense system" like a skunk.
Mine is about 3 years old and does it now and then,but found that in the younger stage mine did it quite often,especially when I took him out to sanitize the cage.
At least your one is bit calm.Think mine is a anaconda x devil -hybrid...
Carlo

