I have recently got a pair. their only 12 months old, I find that they are very cage defensive, but all huff and puff. To be honest, they are very clumsy strikers! Once their out, their good, ones a bit temperamental, but good. They like to urinate a lot too, haha..
Respecting them is the key, don't make sudden movements or any wrong moves, then they love to be out and about. I find that respectively handling them, is what needs to be done, but it's not like you would handle at Childrens or a coastal.
It's the voice in the back of your mind that makes you nervous, knowing that it can lash out at anytime, they can be hard to read, they can be turned one way, and randomly take a lunge at the hand that is holding them. They can be very intimidating at times, as they will stare you in the eyes, and no matter how you move, they will follow your eyes.
I am yet to have full trust in them, even though I respect the species and know that they are a different ball game to the smaller python species. They are unpredictable. But with a lot of experience and time handling, they will become predictable.
In my opinion, their definitely not a begginners snake, but their not something to be feared, with experience, they are perfect for anyone, aslong as they have the respect and love for them. I mean, I'm only 16, with only 4 years of experience under my belt, but I've learnt a lot.
And when they are the size of an adult, as stated, 30kgs, thats not always a lot, but with a length of 5 meters and the massive strength, you should always have a second person on hand.
Their a beautiful snake, if not the best Australia has to offer.
