Handling a Honduran Milksnake, Sipping a Honduran Milkshake.

[Kruggar]

Hey all,
I'm snake-sitting my friends honduran milk snake, he's about 3 feet long and a few years old (the snake not my friend ). He is as timid as a wild caught snake, only been handled a few times. I would like to get to the point where we can handle him without him spazzing out, biting and musking us. I don't want to stress it out too much, but it would be good for both us and the snake if we could carry it and hold it without everyone stressing.

I have no experience in snakes what-so-ever. Their care seems easy, and I am game to learn.

Any help at all would be appreciated.

Pliskin:

 

[Hayden]

I would start by moving the snake out of the cage for feeding. It'll reduce striking when you reach in the cage if he knows it's not food. Try moving him to a paper bag or even a bathtub. If you're worried about getting bit, invest in a small snake hook. Other than that, I'd recommend short, frequent handlings until he gets used to it. Make sure you don't handle him for the first 48 hours after feeding.

 

[Kruggar]

We aren't having problems with striking while feeding, he's getting thawed hoppers right now. He's just so timid. Just a gentle touch causes it to totally spaz and wiggle. I'm able to gently lift part of him and let him slither off, but he still freaks out.

Should I just try to pick him up multiple times a day? Or every few minutes? I just don't want to stress him too much. How much can I handle him without risking health?

 

[Hayden]

I would start by letting him slither through your hand, you can do that a few times a day. If he relaxes, then try gripping or lifting him.

 

[Kruggar]

Alright I'll try to cup my hand under him about 4 times a day and we'll see if the snake eventually calms down. Thanks Heyden!

 

[Hayden]

No problem! Here and happy to help. Let me know how it goes.

 

[Kruggar]

Update: I've been continuously picking up the snake at least once a day (besides after feedings) and its at the point now where he doesnt attempt to strike, flail or escape. He just chills out or slowly slides through my hands. It's pretty cool to have a tame snake, that I can bring out and show people.