I'd love your takes on exactly what he's doing and why! This is a repetitive behavior that happens on my neck, waist, and shoulders every time we're reunited after days away (usually due to shed, but sometimes due to illness) but never any other time. I assume he missed me??? The study (Aggregation and social interaction in garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis, 2020) indicates snakes (at least, garters) can and do bond. I strongly believe this to be affection.

I have consulted a vet online about this behavior, and he has no medical signs of anything causing this especially bc it's only displayed after being separated from me specifically. Humans always check on and speak to him daily, regardless of where I am or shedding, so it isn't like he is desperate for attention.

He's been in my hands for several minutes at this point.

This is Temperance. She is an 8 year old Enchi Lesser morph ball python. She is very chill and docile. She absolutely loves feeding day and always knows when she's about to be fed and gets excited. She has converted the neighbors into snake lovers. My mother calls her Grand Snake.

She's a bit dumb(in the cute way), but i love her lol.

I stole him from his home for but a moment of clout, his reward: a baby mouse from our trap

my baby MBK scared me somethin awful today. Couldn’t find him anywhere in his tank took out all the hides checking each one inside and out. Started digging around in the substrate(gently) and NOTHING. Panic ensues. So I pull out the basking rock and dig in the dirt underneath it. Still no snek. THE BASKING ROCK IS HOLLOW!! the brat was inside the whole time. And as a present he left me a full shed in the rock too.

Any Blood Python owners have tips?

My Willow!