any advice / pointers for me?

[Alhieron]

First off I would like to say hello to everyone.. I am new to the site.. and also to the whole snake thing. My son is wanting a ball python for his birthday and I am more than likely going to get him one. Before I do though.. I would love some pointers, or things that experienced people believe I should know about these snakes.

Thank you in advance so much!

[angllady2]

Take the time to read the care sheets that are stickied here at the top of the main BP husbandry page. These will tell you pretty much everything you need to know to get started. There is a basic caresheet and a FAQ page.

There is a wealth of information here, and of course we are all ready to help.

Welcome to the forum by the way.

Gale

[j_h_smith]

After reading the care sheets for Ball Pythons, I would recommend buying everything BUT the snake first. Set up the enclosure, get the heat set up and properly adjusted. Give the enclosure a couple of day to acclamate. After you're sure things are perfect, buy the ball python and bring it home. This sill be less stressful for your new little buddy.

Refrain from picking up the snake for 10-21 days. Changing the water every couple of days will be the only interaction you should have for these 10-21 days. First food should be a little smaller than it's usual meal. Second meal can be tried 5 days later and can be a regular meal. At that point you will probably reallize that this snake has coiled around your heart and you really can't believe how you could have had bad thoughts about owning a snake.

Enjoy your new pet and always remember a pet doesn't need arms or legs to grab a hold of your heart and give you a great big hug.

Congrats!
Jim Smith

[SlitherinSisters]

Welcome to the site! You'll find just about every piece of information there is about ball pythons on this site! There are several care sheets located on this site. Good luck with everything!

I will also say that ball pythons are considered a beginners snake because of their temperment, but baby balls especially can be an intermediate snake when it comes to care. They can be very finicky snakes. The number one thing to remember is that they are not display snakes and need to have a nice and snug hide to spend 98% of their day in.

[Alhieron]

thank you so much.. I was thinking I should probably set things up first before bringing him home. thank you so much!!

[j_h_smith]

thank you so much.. I was thinking I should probably set things up first before bringing him home. thank you so much!!

Good to see a new snake owner wanting to do things properly BEFORE they get their pet. Many times, they come home with a snake and then look on the internet for help.

Glad to have you on board.
Jim Smith

[WesleyTF]

I would agree they're not a display animal, but I would add that they are an interaction animal.

Rather than getting a snake from petco or the like, I would suggest you find a breeder on here (that will be quite a bit cheaper, too) or even try finding a slightly older animal on craig's list. Just remember to always use your best judgement when picking out a snake.

[Jamie-n-Heith]

I would agree they're not a display animal, but I would add that they are an interaction animal.

Rather than getting a snake from petco or the like, I would suggest you find a breeder on here (that will be quite a bit cheaper, too) or even try finding a slightly older animal on craig's list. Just remember to always use your best judgement when picking out a snake.

I adopted one of my balls from my local animal shelter and it turned out to be wonderful, it is a great eater and easy to handle. Not only did I get a great snake but I saved a life too

[BPelizabeth]

Hey welcome to the board. I have to tell you...be careful!! My mom bought my son a ball python for his birthday. Within 60 days.....I had 2 more.. They are awesome and totally addictive!!

[Alhieron]

Hey welcome to the board. I have to tell you...be careful!! My mom bought my son a ball python for his birthday. Within 60 days.....I had 2 more.. They are awesome and totally addictive!!

oh goodness hahah. well, since yesterday my daughter now wants a corn snake along with my sons python..haha... so it looks like we are already on this road before the addiction even starts.. haha.