first time owner

[fighterbynature]

Hey all,

I have recently purchased my first ball python and she is super sweet and active, I am not sure on her weight yet but she is about 2 1/2' long and a great eater. I have had her for about two weeks and I am curious on the best handling practices with her as she is new to her home home and owner and also what the best feeding schedule is as she has been on a diet of one frozen pinky a week and I want to ensure i am taking good care of her and keeping her healthy. Any help would be great! Thanks!!

[IMG][/IMG]

[Commandokev]

I would say your weekly schedule is adequate. Just make sure you husbandry is correct and you will be just fine! Congrats on your new pickup. Its very addictive though (You've been warned ).

Handling practices are different for everyone you ask. Just be gentle and go slow. Balls tend to get jumpy with fast movements, especially around their heads.

[fighterbynature]

Thanks, I had one growing up back in the day but my oldest daughter and me are both snake addicts. anything and everything pertaining to snakes we both love. I am curious about when I could look to getting her into live mice and rats as well, now I have also noticed she has started to tunnel under her water dish recently and should I be concerned?

[Commandokev]

BPs naturally want to tunnel. Mine used to do this as well. Check to see what your hot spot is running, she may just be looking for a warmer spot and found it under the water dish instead of under her hide or she could just be exploring and happen to find a comfortable secure spot. A hiding ball python is a happy ball python. I wouldn't worry too much unless she starts knocking over the water dish. The only harm that will do is cause you to have to replace your substrate.

[Drako21]

One pinky a week for a 2.5' snake seems like a very small meal. You want the prey item to be as big around as the largest part of their body or 10-15% of their body weight.

Also why do you want to start her on live rodents? Frozen/thawed is much easier and safer. Not to mention she is already used to it.

[fighterbynature]

I was always under the impression that Live was better when it came to feeding them but if it is safer I will continue to us the frozen. Thanks for the info as far as what size to feed her.