First off, why are you worrying. Kingsnakes are strong, durable, and basically nice snakes to keep and handle.

What you have to understand is, its an animal. It learns and it teaches. I agree with Bluerosy, chasing it with a hook is not a good thing. I do not think you would like something poking you with a stick.

Once it learns your not going to hurt it, it will be fine. Then you can form a relationship with the animal where it will come to you. The first skill you need to learn is fear, stop being afraid. Fear indeed scares animals. They do not have the brain you and I have, but they can indeed sense simple things like fear and that is very unstable. They simply do not want to be hurt. They want to be secure, just like you. So use your hands, be calm and strait forward.

If your interested in how to become "friends" with your animal, then ask more questions pertaining to this. This is a skill just like any other skill. Some folks have it naturally, others do not. In both cases, it can be learned and improved and of benefit to the animal. I this was in person, I could teach you to hold a snake in a way, it feels secure and that results in less fear for both of you. Best wishes

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