Acceptable tank size change

[shootingstar26]

Hello

I have a ball python just short of two feet, and it is in a (I think) 5-gallon tank. It has the same length and width as a 10 gallon tank, but a different height. I want to change the tank it is in. I have access to a 40L tank and stand, but I wasn't sure if it was acceptable for the snake to go from a somewhat smaller enclosure to a larger one. Can I change its place or should I invest in a 20L tank?

[Kaorte]

Just get the 20L. A 40g is too big for a ball python, maybe a very huge adult female, but definitely not a baby.

[shootingstar26]

Ah. It was just that I could get a 40 w/stand for free, so I thought maybe to save some extra cash.

But out of curiosity, if snakes can live in the vast expanse of Africa, why not a larger tank?

[dr del]

Hi,

Some can.

Some are more nervous and will never feel secure.

In Africa, as in our enclosures, they seek out a nice tight hiding spot and stay there most of the time.

The reason we tend to reccomend the smaller enclosures is simple - the confident, brave guys won't care that it is smaller and will eat fine and the shy, timid guys will appreciate the security and be much more likely to eat fine.

Since you are never certain what camp your new snake is going to fit into it makes sense to set up the enclosure that will work for the widest range of temperaments.


dr del

[shootingstar26]

OH, I see. That makes sense.

But since right now my bp is in a 5 gallon tank, I assume that I need to upgrade regardless?

also: I actually use a 10g plastic tub to store my supplies, but it looks like tubs are very popular as snake enclosures. Could I perhaps temporarily house it there, or would it be a moot point?