Colors....?

I'm a fairly new ball python owner, and have been lurking here for a while. I've read many of the threads regarding the proper way to set up your tank; and after realizing my mistakes I now have two UTH's on dimmers for the time being, and the Accurite thermometer/hydrogromter (mod in the sticky complete). My question is this.....I set up the water bowl in the middle with hides on boths sides (one hot and one warm), the second hide I bought was the same size but a slightly darker color; more brownish the original is more of tan color. After arranging the tank, I put the original hide on the opposite side it was originally one. When I put him/her back in he/she went directly to the original hide. I've read that they cannot see certain colors but can they tell the difference between brown and tan...........? Thanks in advance for your answers!

I dont know if they can tell the difference in color but I doubt the color makes any difference if the are the same size you should be good.

Did you put the original hide on the warm side? Maybe he/she was cold after being out of the tank? :)

I have two exo terra reptile caves for my baby male and they are two different colours (tan and brownish red) and he uses both so I don't think its a factor as long as they are the same size!

Some animals MAY have a favorite hide so thats why people reccomend identical hides. Otherwise they will choose the cooler side or warmer side as they see fit. Most snakes will stay on the warm side after a meal but then some snakes stay on the cooler side during breeding cycles for long periods so it varies. As long as they have a choice of either warmer or cooler is whats important.

I put the original hide on the warm side (90-92F), opposite of where it was located originally. I'm not overly concerned as to which one he chooses, I just thought it was a little interesting. I may try to find the exact same color hide this weekend and put it in there in place of the darker one, just to see what happens.

My guess is, if your bp spent alot of time in the 1st hide it might smell familiar or less plasticy than the newer smelling one. Which might be related to a sense of "safety" making him/her choose it first.

My little guy did the same thing when we brought in a new hide. he was forever in the 1st one. Now he uses both as needed.

They can definitely smell the difference. Mine, if she pees or poos in one, usually won't go back into it until I've rinsed it thoroughly.

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Originally Posted by reixox

My guess is, if your bp spent alot of time in the 1st hide it might smell familiar or less plasticy than the newer smelling one. Which might be related to a sense of "safety" making him/her choose it first.

My little guy did the same thing when we brought in a new hide. he was forever in the 1st one. Now he uses both as needed.

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id have to agree with this. your snake is probably just seeking comfort.