Thinking about a ball python after a death

[hazzaram]

Hi everyone. Wasn't sure where to post this. So sorry if it's in the wrong spot.

I'm relatively new to the hobby of keeping snakes. A few months ago I got a baby corn snake and didn't know of a few rules before doing so (making sure it was feeding properly etc.). I believe she was sick when I got her and, long story short, she passed away last night. </3

When I was in the pet store the other day, they had two little ball pythons. I had never thought of one before, as I'm new, but they were just adorable. I wouldn't get one from a petstore and I've found some breeders around here, but I'm a little torn...

I don't know much about ball's. My experience with my corn was good. She was a very sweet snake and loved to be held. My next snake has to have a good temperament. That's so important to me. I understand that I need to work with a snake, but is this species known for a good temperament?

I'm going to do a lot more research before I decide but if there's anyone out there that has had corns and balls, can I get some opinions, please?

[se7en]

ball pythons are awesome, but you have to make sure all the husbandry is spot on.

[bcr229]

I've helped a lot of local first-time snake owner customers get their setups correct before I send a snake home with them. If you have local breeders available, reach out to them for help. Most are glad to, especially since they know a baby they produced will go to a good home.

Also state that you're looking specifically for a pet rather than a high-end morph so the breeder can steer you to a baby that tolerates handling well.

[MontyAndMelissa]

Do lots of research, and reading on here before making your decision. A person I know was abusing their ball python and was trying to find a new home for it, so I rescued her without any research. She was in a really bad place and any help I could have given could have been life saving. Just do your research and I'm sure you'll be just fine. If you plan on using the same enclosure clean it really well, and get new substrate, water dish, hide, the whole 9 yards. You don't know if your corn had something contagious.

[angllady2]

Ball pythons are very known for having a good temperament. But, they do require a little bit more fussing in the care department than a corn, I've been told by my corn raising friends.

If I were in your shoes, I'd go ahead with my research. Start here, since this site is one of the most comprehensive sites with ball python information I've ever seen. If there are a few breeders in your area, contact them. Many will be pleased to help steer you in the right direction to acquire a pet ball. The majority of us are only to happy to share our addiction with others. Don't be afraid to ask questions, here or to a breeder. The only stupid question is the one you don't ask.

While you will probably want to start with a baby, and that is very rewarding, don't look down on an older snake either. Some of my very best pets I got as adult ex-breeders. No joke. Be open to what comes your way as you prepare for your new pet little by little. And yes, buying supplies a little at a time is a good idea while you are still learning. We've seen a lot of people jump in headfirst, only to end up in way over their heads and several hundred dollars poorer, only to discover they didn't need half of what they bought, and now must wait to get the right equipment while the snake suffers.

Ball pythons can be notoriously picky eaters. I've had to deal with my fair share no doubt about it, but given a good set of circumstances and proper care, a lot of that can be avoided. I personally think they are fantastic animals and great pets. But like any other pet, they do have some requirements. Meet those, and you will be well on your way to a long, happy relationship.

Gale

[Viol8r]

I have both, and balls are definitely more "needy" than corns. Both are rewarding to own. Do your research and figure out which one will fit yourlifestyle best and enjoy.