Handling

    With more aggressive snakes you may need to hook them out of the cage or use a pair of thick, heavy gloves (some gloves extend to the elbow) to protect your hands. Snakes can be cage aggressive yet sweet to hold. of course, others are just plain aggressive or passive at all times.  Reptiles are not like cats or dogs. They do not generally crave your companionship. But, they can learn to tolerate it and some seem to enjoy handling and indeed receive some benefit from it (such as basking in your body heat or aid in shed removal). Some species are more social than others and hence easier to tame. Bearded dragons for instance can be seen in group basking huddles in the wild, and they can be some of the most out going of reptiles. Keep in mind, many retiles will not see you as an ally, but as a potential threat. You are bigger than they are, you have a big mouth (no offense), and you could logically eat them for dinner. So, reptiles will generally run from you rather than let you pick them up. Snakes, when cornered in a cage, may make themselves appear larger, go into the threatening "S" mode and begin hissing. Even "tame" snakes may do this - however, the tame snakes will calm down once out of their cage. It is safest to use gloves or a hook to remove a snake from its cage, then proceed to handle it by hand. The more time you spend in the snake's cage, the less threatening you will appear to the snake. It will get used to you being there. If you have a flighty animal, hold your hand in the cage for 15 min. or so at a time several times a day until seeing you no longer triggers the "fight" response. Gradually move your hand closer, still not touching, until it no longer phases him. Allow him to crawl onto your hand, without moving your hand, until he is secure being there. Eventually you will become just another piece of cage furniture. Touching, I know. :o) If he gets nasty, do not put him up right away or he will learn that you will give him freedom if he acts up. Wait until he is calm before putting him back.  Generally, boas & balls are two of the calmer reptile species to handle - but this can be individual, so handle a snake you want to purchase before you spend the money.