Awww come on man, you would do the same thing if you were the snake. I've been bit by many a snake (non-venomous of course) and I think it is best not to react. Typically, once a snake knows biting isn't gonna work, they usually calm down a little. That was the case with the big yellow bellied racer I caught here. It bit me in the hand and then calmed down right away. I caught that snake within minutes of catching this baby gopher snake. The little guy was a completely different story. He wouldn't stop biting and hissing no matter what. Eventually he calmed down a little, but he was not happy I picked him up!
I can't wait for spring so I can get out to the Sierra in search of the California Mountain Kingsnake!!
I'm surprised with my new Mata Mata turtle, he is completely docile. He squirms a little and wants to be let go, but there is no biting at all...
Not the case with stinkpots, snappers and softies....
Bart