Hi all! I don't currently own any reptiles, just my 2 dogs, but I'm preparing to get my first ever ball python in November at an expo and I have some questions!

-First, would you recommend a baby or an adult for a beginner? It seems like most of the expos around here only have hatchlings or very old snakes. I'm not totally against buying online if I decided to get an older snake but I really would rather see it in person and make sure it looks okay before buying. Which leads me to my next question...

-Do you think you can accurately tell a snakes temperament at an expo when handling it or would it be so stressed by the experience that you wouldn't know until you got the snake home and settled in for a few weeks? What are some things I should look for other than overall appearance, mites, and stuck shed?

- I'm planning on going with glass as the idea of a plastic tub is just really off putting to me. I don't think theres anything wrong with it if it works but I'd rather go with glass unless I have to switch to a tub. Is it a must to get a small tank for a baby or could I do one big enough for an adult provided that I have a lot of hides and clutter for it to feel safe?

- And finally, what brand equipment do you guys use? I want to make sure I get a good hygrometer, thermometer, UTH, and thermostat. I'm in the US if that makes a difference as to what is available to buy. Thanks for for taking time to read and answer my questions!