questions about my new WC eastern

[snakehill]

Okay ! Here goes! First question! And it's a long one! I have had this little beauty for a week now. She seems to be settling in. She does not try to escape from her tank and has been basking etc. She ate several earthworms (6-8?) on Saturday night (they were gone in the AM) I've only taken her out of the tank once. She was not happy (bit me sveral times!) but that is normal. She is jumpy and tries to flee when she sees me and I am sure this is normal also but how long should I wait before I start really interacting with her? She is VERY FAST!!! She wants nothing to do with me! (my cocker spaniel loves her! She watches her for hours! Just like her mommie! lol) How long does it usually take for WC snakes to calm down? I know all snakes are different but generally speaking. Also when feeding worms you should feed twice a week correct? Sorry to be so long winded! Thanks in advance!

[RedSidedSPR]

My WC took a few months to get completey calm.

I'd start by interacting without really touching her to much, and try hand-feeding. That helped mine a lot.

Once they're used to you, theyll be more open to handling.

[snakehill]

I have shown her a worm with a pair of tongs and she was gone! When I fed her the worms I put them in a shallow container (big enough for the snake to fit into) with dirt and covered it with a flat piece of driftwood. She spent a good part of the day in there rooting around. I don't think we are anywhere near being ready to handfeed IMO lol

[RedSidedSPR]

Well, sure, not yet. Its only been a week. Shes still getting used to captivity.

[Starling96]

haand feeding helped me tons
just move very slow and if he bites u instead of the food just move the food closer to his head

[d_virginiana]

Yup, like they said, handfeeding is a big help once they're ready for it.

Another thing you could try is putting your hand in her cage for small amounts of time, and just let it sit there and not trying to touch her or anything. That'd be a good way for her to get used to your presence and understand that you're not a threat. It's great that she's already taking food since you don't have to worry about every little thing you do stressing her out and keeping her from eating.

[guidofatherof5]

Yup, like they said, handfeeding is a big help once they're ready for it.

Another thing you could try is putting your hand in her cage for small amounts of time, and just let it sit there and not trying to touch her or anything. That'd be a good way for her to get used to your presence and understand that you're not a threat.

Good advice.

[snakehill]

So I should offer her more worms tomorrow though right? I swear she looks like she has grown a litle bit already! Am I imagining this?

[RedSidedSPR]

Yes.

Thats kinda what I meant by interacting without touching.

[snakehill]

Okay but is it too soon? I've only had her for a week!