Ball Python, re-introduced

Question
I was recently given a ball python, maybe 8-10 years old. ( 4 feet + long) She was acclimated to humans young and for many years, but the last 2 years has not been handled and has been fed ( live rats) in its housing environment.  I know the feeding should be separate, and could use thoughts on that. Also can she be re trained to be "friendly" with humans again? thanks for any help you can give. Alan

Answer
Alan,  The thing about feeding in a different environment is usually to give it space. Your snake can get bitten or hurt itself going after its prey. The best thing to do to re-acclimate him or her to humans at that age is going to take what I call the 2 P's . Patience and Persistence. Take you time. Talk and move calmly. Do not put your face in the snakes face but I usually give it a soft warm blow at him now and then when I am feeding so it recognizes your scent and will associate it you with something that makes it happy food. As far as handling try not to use gloves unless it gets out. Slowly in a week or two offer your hand at a distance if you see a threatening posture just pull back slowly and just keep working with it. Old snake can learn new tricks or relearn old ones...lol I am sure you can get her re-trained. Good Luck, Tina