Ball Python? right for me? from where/whom to Purchase?

[Maze]

I have been thinking about getting a Ball Python as my next snake. I have owned a Ribbon snake as a child and I do take care of a California King in the summer. I’m looking for a snake that I can handle, drape on my shoulders while doing homework. I work with horses on Saturdays and own a trained show cat( yes trained as in roll over, high fives, and lay down) so I‘m not new to the animal world. I have the room and money for a snake of this size, and I have a friend who breeds smaller reptiles that would be willing to help me if I needed it. For all those Ball Python owners is it the right animal for me as a busy high school student? If not, do you have any other suggestions?


Another question, where is the best place to get a snake, I know of a reptile pet shop that I have heard good things from, yet I have read so many negative things about pet shops and breeders as well. I would be getting a hatchling or very young snake, and I guess this is my main concern.

Thanks,
Maze

[jcaustralia]

well i think it would be good for you, as far as a pet shop it will cost you more there than getting it direct from a breeder or online, this is for a normal of course. look into our 4sale section i am shure you will find something there that will suit you fine.

[Nate]

Hey Maze. Ball Pythons are the only snakes i've ever owned. They're awesome and I am sure everyone here will tell you how awesome they are.

They're easy to care for, just make sure you do your homework and read up on the Caresheets that are posted here.

We're always around to answer questions so fire away. No question is stupid around here. but if you feel it's a common question, there is a good search function at the top of the forum.

As far as who/where to buy from, there are quite a few breeders that are on this forum that may be able to help you out. A normal ball will probably be around $25 and then S&H will be atleast $50 for overnighting it to you. Remember, you're paying for quality when you buy from a reputable breeder.

Welcome to the boards!!

[Maze]

Jcaustralia- Thanks, I’ll look into it.

Nathanledet- trust me I have read plenty of care sheets, from here as well. And I guess I am hesitant to go to a breed over the internet, for one thing I like to see the animal before I get it and two I don’t like the idea of shipping and handling a live animal. If I can find a breeder near me I would defiantly take to time to drive over there a take it home myself.

[jcaustralia]

best thing i would suggest is to look for a reptile show in your area, i know you are in cali, i am in pa so i do not know how things work over there. this way you can see and hold the snake prior to purchasing it.

[jcaustralia]

here is a link to kingsnakes event list look thrue that

http://www.kingsnake.com/events.html

[Nate]

Maze I understand your concern with shipping a live animal. Those that are reputable will send you plenty of pictures if you ask, and the snake will be sent over night. There are a lot of people shipping fedex/delta dash with great success. It's an option I wouldn't rule out. It is safe.

Also, as mentioned, a local reptile show is a pretty good alternative. As you wish, you can hold and see all kinds of different ball pythons. I love reptile shows

good luck on your quest!

[_BoidFinatic_]

A ball is a great choice as are colubrids like milks, kings, and corns. I love the boids, hence the name, but my brother has a corn (that I take care of ) and they are interesting snakes as well, especially if you like the colors of them.

Are you looking for a snake that reaches no longer than 5-6' necessarily or what are your 'requirements' for a snake. Colubrid or boid?

[Maze]

Thanks to both of you, I'll have to ask one of my friends when the next show is, she goes to everyone she can get a ride to, I'm sure she would know and go with me. Thanks for your time, you really have eased my mind.

[jcaustralia]

no problem if you have any other questions please ask, and good luck on your search, keep us all posted