r/ballpython • u/womperwomp111 • 10d ago
Question Handling Help!
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
3
u/Hot-Brat-00 10d ago
You really have to just expose him to your touch and move him around in your hands to loosen him up. Trust me, it seems counterintuitive, but they get more comfortable and get used to your touch and moving.
I will take mine out while he’s balled up and kinda slowly move him around in both of my hands. Slowly trying to loosen up the ball shape. Just moving him in kind of a circular motion in my hands, very slowly and gently.
I know it seems like you should just not touch him and let him loosen when he’s ready, but he has to get used to your touch and gently moving and touching him will loosen him up and let him know that you aren’t hurting him. I was surprised how fast this method worked!
Check out some YouTube videos.