Why a BP?

[BlueSilver]

I have wanted a Ball Python for years, but have yet to get one. Now I am married, decided it was time. My wife disagrees, but I think I can sway her.

I've never owned a reptile before, but I have worked for a pet shop and have a lot of experience with a huge variety of animals.

It seems that BP owners hold thier snakes in high esteem.
My question is this:

What is it about BP's that you like over other snakes, what do you dislike?

For me, I like the size, colorations and docile personalities of BP's.
I don't have the space for a large snake, nor the time or money that would be required to care for a larger type.

Thanks for any responses!

[Nate]

You pretty much have it - right there.

They are not large snakes..don't take up a lot of space, they're very docile and easy to handle

[scutechute]

My question is this:
What is it about BP's that you like over other snakes, what do you dislike?

I like mine because she's big and impressive, and doesn't squirm around like a corn snake.

I don't like her because i remember the headaches she caused when she got picky with feeding ! She's over that now...err... She's over that for now *knocks on wood*

beautiful animals though...that's undeniable.

[RoyalGuardian]

I just got my second ball python because of how gentle they are! they are great ambassadors for snakes. I am hooked on their little personalities and how cute their little faces are! I wouldn't care if ball pythons were 12-14foot long snakes I would still have wanted it purely because I think they are the most beautiful *and best* species of african python IMHO. I love my snakes to me they are my babies and I would even risk my life for both of them. You've caught the bug and your wife will too, I know it if she gives Ball Pythons a chance! Heck Ball Pythons even have their own totally Awesome webforum BP.net!!!! Everyone here at BP.net totally love our Ball pythons and we come here to make sure that we are giving them the best possible care we could offer and to share the stories * and tons of pics!* of our beloved pets.

Maybe if your wife posted some of her concerns we could unhook this little snag!

[Beardedragon]

Head shape, its different. They do not get huge and come in so many colors!

[mooingtricycle]

I keep a few different things, but honestly, there are MANY snakes that many keepers keep in high esteem, they just arent as WIDELY popular as Ball Pythons, or Corn Snakes. and if youre looking to get a first time snake, i suggest researching a whole BUNCH of different species, to see if there is something you truly fall in love with.

Myself, for instance. I got into this after buying a ball python. Then i got another, and another and another. They are good snakes, but then i discovered other fun critters, and its been downhill ever since!!
I personally prefer Caulker Cay Boas, ill recommend them over a ball python ANY day, as i feel they are far more interesting as a species. ( but hey, thats just me!) They are smaller than the BPs, and semi arboreal to boot. *most of the species i keep are pretty much JUST as manageable as BPs in size, and temperament.

I like the ball pythons, i think they are great introductions into the world of keeping herps, but for me, i like something different, Something with little quirks, that you just dont see with the ball pythons. *shrug*

I think bullsnakes are great animals too! tons of personality and energy.

My best advice for you..... Get what you like, and what interests you most!

[Stewart_Reptiles]

I always been attracted by pythons, Retics, Burms, BP have always fascinated me, however I did chose BP due to their manageable size (I work alone with my snakes so I have limitations), their docility and the mutations.

As far as your significant other you might be surprised, while my husband was not a snake person I have seen the change over the past few years, he even own 2 snakes now (Not BP though)