I'm getting my first BP soon and am super nervous. Tips would be appreciated!

[SpaceJellyfish]

I've been wanting a snake for the last five years and pretty soon I am getting my first BP. I'm very nervous about not giving him the correct care or in some way hurting him. I've been researching this for a while but I still don't feel confident. Any tips to making sure I give the hatching the best environment and care? I want him to have a long healthy life.

[DennisM]

https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...Husbandry-FAQs
https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...thon-CARESHEET

and browse the BP.net forums

[SpaceJellyfish]

Alright, thanks ^-^
I think I'll calm down when everything gets settled. It's nice to know this community is here.

[cletus]

I would concentrate on husbandry. Have your enclosure set up and tested before you get your snake. Decide whether you want to go with a tub or a tank and check out the threads below. And read those care sheets Dennis posted.. Understand right from the start how important it is to properly use a thermostat. And remember to have fun!!! Welcome to the forum!!

https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...With-Pictures!

https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...e-Basics-*DUW*

[DennisM]

since you're getting a hatchling, this too.

https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...-hatchling-101

[Coluber42]

For starters, take a deep breath. Ball pythons really are pretty hardy creatures; even if you make mistakes, you can fix them and things will be fine.

But basically, what they need is the right temperatures, places to hide and feel secure without scary wide open empty spaces, and appropriate humidity. And food and water, obviously. All the discussions and arguments are all about whose way of providing those things is "best". But if you're providing those things in a safe, predictable way, you can't go too far wrong.

It's really good to set everything up ahead of time so you know what to expect, because what you need really does vary depending on the ambient conditions in your house. And make sure any heat sources are regulated by a thermostat.

But really, it will be fine. You'd be amazed at how many snakes out there actually do survive and eat in the dreaded pet store setup - bare tank with low humidity, heat lamp, dial thermometers (inaccurate), single half log hide (instead of multiple hides, at least some of which have only one small opening), and unregulated UTH (should be on a thermostat). I'm obviously not telling you to do that! Just telling you that if you read the care sheets and advice you've been referred to, you should be just fine.

[Albert Clark]

Along with the information given so far and all the "sticky" references on the forum to help you, pick up these two manuals. The Ball Python Manual by Vosjoli, Klingenberg DVM, Barker, Barker and Bosch.

The Complete Ball Python by Kevin McCurley. The Ball Python Manual is a great starter manual. The Complete Ball Python goes more in depth.