I experienced a radical change in behavior recently - for the better. Here is my prior link:
http://forums.kingsnake.com/view.php?id=2028590,2111252

In YOUR case, however, something seems to have changed. Like when a machine that operated smoothly for years suddenly starts to malfunction. Then you later find out that a power outage, circuit change or electrical outlet swapped occurred just before the problems.

By any chance, is scent an issue? Did you just hold a dog or cat prior to the tail rattling experiences? Had you just handled any other snakes? Any other strange odors that may apply? (I have to be cautious of scent with my Florida King. I sometimes handle my Rosy Boa before him, and he definitely smells her on my clothing, along with the household cat that I often touch.)

For a stable adult to suddenly exhibit defensive behavior with the same person is not normal; that situation usually occurs in reverse when younger individuals are defensive - but get calmer with age.

I would ensure that no odors are a factor, and then handle daily for at least 10-15 minutes. Talk to the snake, caress it, sit down on the floor with it and watch it crawl around for awhile as a non-tall, now-my-size buddy. See if these things help to calm your snake and result in more trusting behavior.

1.0 Florida Kingsnake "Sardaukar"
0.1 Sonoran Desert Boa (Mexican Rosy Boa) "Summer"
0.1 Dumeril's Boa "Zahara"

1.0 Eastern Box Turtle "Horus"
1.0 Three-toed Box Turtle "Charger"

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