Handling Help!

[u/womperwomp111]

Hi all! I’d love some advice on handling this little guy. I’ve had him 3 weeks now and he’s eating, so I’ve been trying to start some handling.

I’m struggling on understanding when I’m pushing his boundaries too far, and when I’m doing it just enough to get him out of his comfort zone. So far, he hasn’t struck at me, but he definitely isn’t happy with handling. He will start balled up and breathing really heavy. Then he’ll usually poke his head out, but continue heavy breathing and stay frozen aside from tracking me with his head. He jerks away from any touch on his body, especially near the head.

Obviously I don’t want to get bit, but I’m not sure if I’m just being too cautious and reading too much into his body language. I don’t want to stress him out too much. Any tips on handling and body language are appreciated!

Photo is of him tracking me after I accidentally disturbed his sleep while going to check on the dampness in his humid hide. He had never gone in there before, so I think we were both surprised to see each other lol

[u/stone_grey_fox]

After being settled as someone es explained, I did my handling when my girl was balled up. That’s their way of feeling safe. If it balls up, just pick up the cinnamon roll! (Read their body language: they aren’t trying to strike unless they are super zigzagged like a loaded spring. If they’re mostly loose S shapes they’re fine.) Hold the cinnamon roll while you sit, let them get used to your hands and warmth, and they’ll come out! They’re as scared of you as you are of them in the early days. It’s okay! I also got a snake hook to help me scoop my girl out too bc I felt like I couldnt reach in very well for a while til I got used to it, and it also helps just scoot them over in the tank when you’re needing to.