California Kingsnake?

Question

I have a young California Kingsnake that I purchased on March 1st. He/She is quite young, about 14 inches long, seems well adjusted to its new home and is feeding twice a week. Has already shed once, never regurgitated food, and seems to be growing fast.

I want to ensure that the snake grows up to be well adjusted and 'tame.'

Most of the books talk about handling 'frequently' which is a pretty meaningless phrase. So far I've been handling for a few minutes every day (except within 24 of eating or on the day of feeding).

So my question to snake experts out there, is how often should I handle the snake to get her as 'tame' as possible? How long does it typically take, and what other tips do you have about handling?

At this time the snake usually thrashes a little when it comes out, but settles down in less than a minute. But it is still a little jumpy often pulling its head back. It does not fake strike, strike, bite, defecate or musk.

Thanks in advanced for expert opinions.

Answer 1

it is good if you handle it 5 min on the first day 10 min on the second day and so on... but don't go more than an hour or 45 min. This is my opinion and it is how i got my snake tame...

Answer 2

being albino has nothing to do with how calm or tame the snake will be. handle it as much as you want as long as its still eating its prob not stressed out. like you said dont handle for a few days after feeding

Answer 3

My Cali. Kings are all males & have never been aggressive towards humans. In fact, only one time have any of them given me a bite & that was because he struck at his mouse & got me instead.
My guys have always tolerated being removed from their pens & have not reacted violently at hands coming at them from above, even when their eyes are clouded from an impending shed. I usually place my hand in their cage & let them come towards it. You can handle your snakes daily without fear of stressing them, even after a feeding session, as long as you move slowly & don't startle them . I feed all of mine in seperate cages & they are moved back & forth after feeding & I have never had one regurgitate, even right after eating. Your snake's body posture will give you many clues as to what he will permit & when it's best to leave them alone.

Answer 4

if its albino, it will become tame, but will always hold a sort of skiddish nature because of the slight blindness. but as for general taming goes, handle as much as you can for as long as you can. don't just simply hold it though, move him around from hand to hand helping him realize your hands are safe. let/make him go through your fingers, and all over to be used to the fact that he will not be hurt by your hands.