In no way am I claiming this method is the best for all snake owners.This method has had mixed results and I’ve learned that certain snakes can be difficult to “tame.”It is important to note that this method is only one possible way to get your snake to be more socialized. No other methods are guaranteed to work.
Sincerity is the best policy, and I believe that there’s no such thing in reality as a “tame snake”.You can only expect a snake to tolerate you.All animals with mouths are capable of biting, especially when they feel threatened, startled, cornered or scared. They can also bite if they’re hungry, feeling defensive, angry, or hurt.Snakes that are unable to escape a dangerous situation will use their teeth as defense.If you can’t accept that a snake may bite you, don’t get one as a pet.
When it comes to snakes, socializing can be a bit hit-or-miss.If possible, it’s best to consider the general temperament of each snake species you encounter.This is only a general temperament, and it may not apply to every snake.Black rat snakes, for example, are semi-aggressive, especially when cornered. However, there are some individuals who are “docile.”It is possible to find an aggressive snake among normally docile snakes, such as the corn snake.
Kingsnakes are a good example of a snake that can fall into any one or all three categories.You can begin by determining the general personality of the snake. Then, work to find out how it behaves individually.It is best to begin by socializing the snake and praying (sometimes very much) that this will work.
The Socializing Process: Expectations
It takes time to socialize a snake.Do not rush and be patient.Never expect a snake to be socialized in a matter of days.You may need to wait anywhere between 1 and 6 months, or even longer, before you are able to tame the snake.It is important to understand that you may receive a bite from a snake, particularly if it’s frightened. You must know how to handle the situation.If you are able handle a snake that is overly aggressive with gloves, and the snake does not try to escape or strike at anything that moves constantly, then you should feel grateful.This may be your best achievement with the snake.You will never be able to hold an aggressive serpent with the same level of carefreeness that you are accustomed with corn snakes.Even when acting well, an aggressive snake is not to be trusted.They will remind you, sometimes painfully, that they still have an aggressive mindset, even when they act well.
Starting
You will need to purchase a pair (not thick, nor too thin) of medium-weight work / gardening gloves.Place the gloves in the cage of the snake and let them stay there for three days.You want the scent of the snake to be permeated into the gloves.
Stage One
Set up a timetable for working with the snake.You should work at least 3 times a week, with one session per day of 10-30 minutes.Remove the gloves after a couple of days.Then, gently but firmly pick up the snake with the gloves.We want to make the snake feel “non-threatening“. His scent on the glove may reinforce that idea.You can also use the gloves to protect yourself in case a snake bites you.Only handle this snake while wearing the gloves.It is important to avoid introducing strange smells which could alarm the snake.It is not a good idea to use the same gloves to hold mice or rats, and then pick up a snake.The first stage may take two weeks.The snake will learn that handling is normal and that he shouldn’t be afraid or nervous.
Stage Two
You will want to continue your schedule after the second week.After the first five minute session, you’ll remove your gloves. You will then handle the snake without gloves for the remainder of the time.We are trying to make the snake accustomed to your smell.By now, you want to make sure that your snake has a good idea of the fact that gloves do not threaten him and you won’t hurt him.It is important that the snake feels comfortable being handled.You will now need to handle the snake with more care, as you are removing your gloves. This means you lose the protection that you have against bites.The second stage will only last one week if the snake has a quick learning ability.Try two weeks if not.If the problem persists, go back to step one and restart.
Stage Three
The last step is to take the snake out of its cage. You should not see any signs of nervous behavior (tail buzzing or striking).You can try this again if you fail to complete the task.Once the snake is confident, remove the cage from the cage.We want you to feel comfortable handling the snake, without constantly watching it.It does not mean you can ignore the snake. But you will be able (after a few glances) to judge its mood by the way it reacts to certain things, such as children or large crowds.
Many snakes don’t mind when people touch them.Some snakes are frightened by large crowds, while others do not mind.Adapt yourself to the type of snake that you’re using, or even just holding.You may only have a small group snake available, but your program will involve a larger one. Try to organize it in such a way that no more than 1 or 2 individuals can pet the snake at any given time.
