Looking for a little handling advice

brylecc1989 · 05-20-11, 02:37 PM

So, my girl is almost a year old coastal. About 3 1/2 feet. Ive been working with her whenever i catch her out of her hide, trying to get her used to me. I place my hand in the tank, starting at the opposite end and work closer. Yesterday i made it with half inch of her nose and she seemed totally cool. Then i picked her up and she pretty much bugged. Although she didn't strike at me at all, she was flailing back and forth and desperately trying to escape. I instantly put her down, im not just doing this for me i dont want to over stress her. I just want her handlable, i understand she'll never be cuddly or watever. I was just wondering what i should do in this situation. If i pick her up and she flees, is it ok to just gently restrain her so she realizes i wont hurt her? Or should i put her right down and let her be? I want her to be happy, i know she'll never love handling but i want her to be calm. Any advive or constructive criticism greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Bryan

SnakeyJay · 05-20-11, 03:02 PM

As far as im aware the general rule is to handle them for a few minutes till they calm down.. This shows them that biting/flailing wont get them put down.. Gradually increase the handling time in relation to the progress you make... Im sure someone will be along with a more definite answer for you soon.

Lankyrob · 05-20-11, 03:07 PM

Our carpet flails when first picked up - i think its a balance/nervous thing - as soon as i fully support his body and let him wrap around an arm he calms pretty quick.

Imagine someone grabbing you by the waist and picking you up suddenly so that you dont feel totally safe.......

brylecc1989 · 05-20-11, 04:17 PM

Thanks guys. The challenge to interact with these animals is so engaging im entranced. Appreciate the advice.

stephanbakir · 05-20-11, 06:30 PM

Just to clarify what snakey said, Don't put a snake back in its terrarium after it bites you unless you need to clean the wound immediately, it tells them that if they bite you, you will leave them alone.

brylecc1989 · 05-23-11, 11:23 AM

So the day after this post i continued working with Nesta. I got her out, and altho flighty at first, you guys were right. As soon as she felt secure she mellowed out and has actually taken to handling quite well. Couldn't have done it without this forums support.

stephanbakir · 05-23-11, 11:42 AM

Glad to hear it.