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[Axel28]

So. I'm new here and i haven't got a Ball Python yet so, i wanted to ask a few question before I do....

First question: For a baby Ball Python how big does the tank/cage/enclosure/terrarium need to be?

I am asking because alot of people said that if the enclosure is to big, the snake will get stressed out, is that true? Say: the snake is a baby so does it need a 20 gallon tank or is it okay for it to be 40 gallon?

Second question: Should I trust pet stores such as Pet Supplies Plus, I heard alot of bad things about Petsmart and Petco, is Pet Supplies Plus gonna be the same? By the way, filled out an application for both Pet Supplies Plus and Petsmart.

Third question: How would you do the lighting?

Fourth question: How about Humidity?

Fifth question: Would you use a tub or a tank?

And sorry for the dumb questions...

[KayLynn]

1st - if you're using a tank for a baby, a 20 gal is recommended. An adult snake will be fine in a 40 gallon. If you do buy a 40 gallon and the snake is a baby, clutter the tank with fake plants, hides and/or crumpled paper so there is less empty space.

2nd - personally, I do not trust any commercial pet store. If you're going to buy a snake, it's best to get one from a privately owned pet store with a good reputation or from a breeder.

3rd - most people who use lighting in regards to heat lamps place them over the warm hide or create a basking area. I've always used racks, as ball pythons prefer cozy, dark spaces and heat lamps make humidity a real pain to control, so I'm not the best person to answer that particular question.

4th - humidity should always be in the 55% - 60% range, and a hydrometer is the best way to monitor this. When the snake is in shed, humidity can be bumped up just a bit until the shed is over.

5th - tubs are much easier to control ambient humidity and temperature. I use a rack system, so all of my snakes are in tubs.


No question is regards to the care of an animal is a dumb question





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[L.West]

Typically most people use rubbermaid tubs for snakes. They hold the heat and humidity well. They are a very cheap way to go also. Just be sure to get a good thermostat for whatever setup you decide to go with.

I would stay away from all the big box stores for the actual snake. Getting supplies from there is okay but not the animal. And don't trust the knowledge of the workers in the big box stores. They usually have no clue what they are talking about in regards to husbandry for snakes.

Snakes do not need lighting. Just keep their tub in a room that will get natural light cycle from normal daylight.

Best of luck to you with your future snake.

[Emily_Doughty]

1. For my first ball python, she was fairly small. I put her in a 40 gallon. And 4 years later she's doing great.

2. I've never heard of pet supplies. But I prefer local breeders and/or morph market.

3. I had a heating pad on one end of the tank with her hide over it. Her water bowl on the other side. And a light on top of the mesh lid in the center. 12 hours on 12 hours off. I used a reptisun 10.0 uvb bulb from Zoomed.

4. I would just mist her and the tank with a spray bottle.

5. Since I only had one I used a tank. But now I have 12 so I have a rack system.

Hope this helps!
Good luck!

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[Axel28]

Thank you for the help everyone!

[Craiga 01453]

Welcome!!! My advice would be to read through the stickies on this forum regarding basic husbandry. If you follow the stickies, which were put together by people with years upon years of experience with thousands of snakes, you will be on the right track to success...

Good luck! We're her to help you with any questions you may have.