What to look for?

[Magic Rat]

Tomorrow I'm heading to a local reptile show to pick up my new Ball Python! I am excited, as I have gotten its setup all ready at home and all I need now is a snake. I was hoping to get some tips as far as what to look for in my new snake at the show, signs of a healthy, good snake, etc. This is my first BP so I am no expert at all, and I'd like to make sure I bring home a quality, healthy animal. All I'm really looking for is a normal BP, as I can't really afford any fancy morphs at this time.

In addition, if anyone has experience at the All Ohio Reptile Show in Columbus, OH and can offer advice on quality breeders to buy from, that would be more than welcome! Thanks in advance.

[Magic Rat]

Any tips?

- - - Updated - - -

Any tips?

[dr del]

Hi,

I'd check that the eyes are nice and clear, look around the vent, check the body's tone and look for any signs of scale damage or infections.

Other than that I like to see lots of tongue flickering and good movement.

Oh and some morphs are really quite affordable now like pastels etc.

Mainly buy one you think is beautiful and avoid anything that looks like it doesn't eat well - thin last third with no sign of poop working its way through etc.


dr del

[Morris Reese]

MITES! Look for mites! You don't want to bring that trouble home!

[Montypython696]

Nice to see another Ohioan on the forums.

In my experience at the shows always ask questions. A good reputable breeder won't mind answering all of your questions because they truly care about what they sell and to whom.

Personally, I only buy from a breeder who hatched out the babies he is selling. I've heard countless horror stories from people who buy from a vendor who hasn't hatched out what he is selling.

If you don't mind the two hour drive, the Cleveland show is tomorrow, its about the same size as the Columbus show.

[Magic Rat]

Thanks everyone! I talked to Tim with Special K Reptiles at the show, who was very helpful! He didn't have any normals, but helped me with a deal on a beautiful female Pastel that I could afford! I'll snap some pictures and put them up after I give her a couple days to settle in to her tank.

[Montypython696]

The Koppenhofers are really good people in my book. Although I've never purchased anything from them, Tim is extremely knowledgeable about Balls.

I'm glad he worked with you, and that you got your first morph! I'll see him tomorrow at the Cleveland show more than likely. I'm eager to see what he has.