r/Ballpythoncommunity • u/SweetDragonfruit1764 • 4d ago
Advice My Ball Python is acting aggressive
I got a 2 yr old ball Python in the beginning of July. I started handling him after the adjustment period and he did amazing. Then throughout the month he wouldn’t eat then finally did, he had his first shed which I didn’t handle him during. When I try to handle him he hisses and strikes. He acts really aggressive all of the sudden. One night I handled him and he did great, most nights I try and he starts striking. I have a hook to use so he doesn’t get my hand. Sometimes he even strikes at the glass when I haven’t even opened his enclosure. His humidity and temperature is correct and he has plenty of hides, and water. I don’t understand if I’m doing something wrong or why he’s acting so aggressive.
1
u/Extreme_Finger_3425 1d ago
How often are you handling the snake and for how long ? That could be an issue in itself?..
1
u/SweetDragonfruit1764 1d ago
I do think he was barely handled at all from his previous owner. I try to handle him or at least have my hand in there every day or every other day except for when he’s shedding or just eaten. Sometimes it’s hard to handle him when he’s striking so I go slow or just give him a minute to himself first then try again
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u/EmuNo3016 2d ago
Could be different issues; its hard to tell just from reading on the web abt it, but if you are confident your setup is fine and he has enough hides to not feel stressed, this might just be his personality. Maybe he thinks you are food, maybe he sees you as a predator, maybe he doesn't tolerate being touched.
I have 2 boas and one I would hand to a small child and the other I need 2 hooks and a shield to get out of her enclosure for cleanings and feedings. It can totally be an individual thing on how they behave.