What will make my ball python less aggressive?

Question

i just got a new ball python today and it seems very aggressive, idk if its because its fixing to shed and its eyes are milky and cant see or what, i dnt realy know. i want my snake to be friendly and not bit because i normaly have many people at my house and i want to be able to take it places with me. feel free to send me messages on yahoo or msn my msn is [e-mail] and my yahoo is [e-mail]

Answer 1

If the eyes are milky then it's probably starting a shed.  Make sure you keep a spot in the tank humid...I prefer to use a decent size tupperware container as a humid hide when Sable's shedding.  A bit of damp moss or paper towels makes for a nice clean shed.  No handeling during shed, that's a sure way to get tagged.  At least until you and your snake know each other.

As for the aggression, first off keep in mid your snakes feeding schedule.  A hungry snake is more likely to strike, as is a scared snake. If s/he feels threatened (though not as likely w/ a ball) they're apt to lash out such as any frightened creature.  Snakes are not tame pets...they're very much a wild animal and though can be sweet and friendly they must be treated with respect.  Make sure to educate those who come around him/her.  No sudden movements and let them know what to do in case they DO get bitten.  I've had my ball for 2 years without ever a hint of a strike unless she was just coming off a feed strike and was testy.  They're really kittens in snakes clothing, Frequent handeling will help less her natural fear and make her more comfortable with people touching her.  

~Michelle

Answer 2

First of all, you just got your snake today. I recommend leaving it in it's house for a couple days before you attempt to handle it. Give it some time to settle in.

Also, if it's eyes are milky then it's probably getting ready to shed. Keep a tupperware container (large enough for the snake to crawl into) filled with water for humidity and to help with the shedding process. Do not handle the snake during shedding. They can't see well and will probably be more apt to bite you.

Make sure your snake isn't hungry. Don't handle it for 2 or three days after it's been fed. Snakes can make very docile pets when handled appropriately. Frequent handling will help. Don't make sudden movements, be calm, slow and deliberate in your actions.