Handling a Coastal Carpet Python

[Kera]

Hey! So I'm new the forums but I'm just wondering how long I should wait to handle my Carpet! I just got her yesterday from a friend who could no longer care for her; she is also very healthy! I have handled her before I owned her, and she is very docile and friendly. She's about 6 feet long, probably 3 years, 3 1/2?Just a guestimate. And any other tips on owning her would be appreciated thanks!

[bigsnakelove]

it really depends on the snake, some handle from day one some don't read your snakes behaviour and go from there, if she looks/acts stressed eg striking etc then leave her to settle in if she seems ok you can handle for a few mins and see how she goes while your handling her and so on

[lady_bug87]

I would wait until she eats for you a couple times before you handle her. A move can be stressful on them and could put them off eating. Handling could make it worse.

[franks]

Is she in her original enclosure? Congrats on the carpet! Morelia are the best. You should show her off with a few pictures.

[Donnie]

I agree with lady bug, get a couple of feeds down and then start to handle. Waiting a few weeks to handle is nothing compared to the years you should have together

[Lankyrob]

Also agree, you will have this snake for many many years (hopefully); a few days without holding it in the schem of things is nothing

[Terranaut]

I also would normally wait until the snake eats a meal or two but if the snake is in its original enclosure I wouldn't bother waiting. I would however keep it short the first few times. In the end it's up to you.

[lady_bug87]

I also would normally wait until the snake eats a meal or two but if the snake is in its original enclosure I wouldn't bother waiting. I would however keep it short the first few times. In the end it's up to you.

my only issue with that is even though its in the same enclosure it's a new house. So new sounds and smells

[Terranaut]

Yup but I doubt it will mind. Not at 3+yrs old. I would be surprised if she has any issues at all from the move. A baby carpet would be a bit spooked but adult catpets are pretty stable. If she was easy to handle before and has the same enclosure I doubt she will react negatively at all. If she does it will be obvious. Then just put her back and wait as said above. Personally I would let her explore the room she is in a bit during any playtime. When I moved all my snakes to the snake room lastvyear some got a little skittish with the bew suroundings but not my carpets. They love the explore and did so right away. I just open their enclosures and let them wander with supervision one at a time.
I find it interesting how many carpeta are nippy when young but very confident when adult sized. Love carpets

[Kera]

Thanks guys. I did end up holding her last Monday, her original owner said to go ahead. She did fine and just wanted to venture. Thanks <3