Not with words, obviously.
Though that would be amazing.
Instead, it talks to you through its body language and behaviors.
Ball python behavior tells you far more than you may think.
And today you will learn how to decode your ball python’s body language, so that you can understand what it is telling you and act accordingly.
Table of Contents
Understanding Ball Python Body Language
Ball pythons, like all snakes, are fairly easy to understand. You will be able to understand the cues your snake gives you. This understanding is essential to helping you keep your snake healthy and happy.
Here are some general guidelines to help you decode your ball python’s body language. You should also read my article on common mistakes made by beginning ball python owners.
Tongue Flicking
All snakes flick their tongues out to get information about their environment. If you have had your ball python for a long time, it might not flick its tongue out too often, since it already knows everything it wants to know about its surroundings.
In general, slow and relaxed tongue flicking means your snake is happy and relaxed. On the other hand, hurried and short tongue flicks indicate the snake is stressed or ill.
No Movement And No Tongue Flicks
A lack of movement and tongue flicking could indicate that your snake is asleep. Ball pythons, like all snakes, do not have eyelids, so we can never tell for sure when they are awake or asleep.
If your snake is not moving, approach it with caution. Wait for a bit to see if it moves and flicks its tongue out. Ball pythons are crepuscular. Therefore, you can expect your snake to sleep during the day.
S-Shaped Stance
A ball python might assume an S-shaped stance as a warning. The S-shape is formed using the snake’s head (retracted) and body (coiled), which will look like the English letter ‘S’.
This indicates that the ball python is ready to strike and is defensive. It may have perceived some danger in its environment. It is best not to approach or handle your snake when it has taken this stance.
Hissing
Ball pythons hiss when they are angry, scared, or trying to defend themselves. This behavior is your snake’s way of telling you to go away.
In extreme cases, hissing could be a form of wheezing caused by a respiratory issue. Watch out for other signs, like mucus or discharge around the nostrils, open-mouth breathing, and lack of appetite. If these signs are present, please prepare to take your ball python to the vet.
Tail Shaking
Ball pythons sometimes shake their tails at their live prey. This is called caudal luring. The shaking tail is a way of tricking the prey into coming closer, thinking it is food.
In some cases, excessive tail shaking could be an indication that your snake is afraid. It may be shaking its tail to warn a perceived predator away.
Curled Up Or Coiled Into A Ball
The ball python species gets its name due to its defense strategy of curling into a ball when it feels threatened. They usually do this when they are stressed or terrified.
Do not handle your coiled ball python. Just let it be. Make sure there are no environmental issues (temperature, light, humidity, etc.), stressing your pet. Make adjustments as needed and see if your pet becomes more active.
If your ball python remains curled up all the time and has no appetite, it could be sick or in pain. Issues like parasites, impaction, injuries, constipation, metabolic problems, reproductive problems, or bacterial or fungal infection could cause it to curl up and not eat.
Try changing your ball python’s food. Also, soak your snake in warm water for a few minutes to stimulate its bowels. If this does not work, take your snake to the vet.
Musking Or Defecating
Ball pythons usually do not musk. Sometimes, they may release solid or liquid forms of feces or urine when handled. If that occurs, it may be a sign that your snake does not want to be handled. It may be stressed or might have perceived you as a threat resulting in the defecation.
Tips For Taming And Handling Your New Ball Python
Once you have brought your ball python home, wait at least 2 weeks before handling it. It is best not to handle your ball python at least until it has started eating well.
You will know when your snake is ready to be handled. It will be relaxed and calm and it won’t strike or hiss at you when you go to pick it up. It might be used to your smell by now if you have been feeding it regularly.
To make your snake feel comfortable with you, you must relax too (especially while handling and feeding it). Here are some dos and don’ts while handling your ball python:
- Do not hold your ball python too tight.
- Avoid holding your snake at its neck, just behind its head. It could perceive you as a threat and strike.
- Make sure to support your snake’s midsection. This will also help you hold it closer to your body and not at arm’s length away.
- Never touch your ball python’s tail; they are very sensitive about this part of their body.
Just like any new relationship, take it slow. Start with brief handling sessions to slowly tame your ball python, no more than 3-5 minutes. A calm ball python will gently wrap around your arm or hand. It will squeeze gently.
If it appears stressed, return it to its enclosure. Observe your snake to ensure it calms down once it is back in its cage.
If your initial handling session has been successful, you can increase the handling duration to 8-10 minutes and gradually longer from there.
You can handle your ball python once or twice a week but never more than once a day. Unlike cats and dogs, handling is not a necessity for your ball python’s mental well-being. Excess handling can stress out your snake.
However, regular handling helps keep your ball python tame and can enhance the bond between you and your snake. It is also a good physical activity for your snake.
How To Tell If Your Ball Python Is Comfortable With You
If your ball python calmly wraps itself around your arm when you pick it up, chances are that it is comfortable with you. Another indication is that it won’t go into hiding when you approach its enclosure.
A relaxed snake will move slowly on your arm. It won’t try to escape, nor will it try to grab you too hard. Grabbing hard is an indication that the snake is stressed or frightened and does not want to be held.
Ball Python Behavior: Final Thoughts
Understanding your ball python’s body language is crucial for ensuring its health and happiness. By recognizing cues such as tongue flicking, movement, and specific postures, you can better interpret your snake’s needs and emotions.
Knowing when your ball python is relaxed, stressed, or defensive allows you to provide the appropriate care and environment.
Proper handling techniques and patience are key to building a trusting relationship with your ball python. Start with brief handling sessions and gradually increase the duration as your snake becomes more comfortable. Remember to support its body properly and avoid sensitive areas like the tail and neck.
By observing and respecting your ball python’s behavior, you can create a safe and stress-free environment that promotes its well-being. This understanding not only enhances the bond between you and your pet but also ensures a happy and healthy life for your snake.
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