I need some advice

Hello All,
I recently(three days ago) purchased a captive born ball python. I assume he is fairly young. He is only 18-20 inches long.He fed on his first night home (live mouse). I am trying to read all I can about them. Some sources say that I shouldn't handle him for appx 1-2 weeks after bringing him home. Other sources don't even mention this. I have handled him a few timesfor appx an hour at a time. He shows no signs of aggression or defensive posturing. He seems to be comfortable. Should I stop handliing him for a week or two? Or is it o,k, since he seems to be fine with it? Thank you for any help you may have for me.

Matt

The issue with handling a new royal is that many ball pythons will begin to fast when stressed. Although your ball python may appear to be "fine" with your handling sessions, you really have no idea what's going on in that little bee-bee sized brain of his .... He could take his next meal or two just fine and then all of a sudden flat out refuse everything for 8 months ... and you will know exactly why.

For a timid small snake like a ball python, moving into a new home with different temps, humidity, and routines is a pretty big thing to get use to. Handling by a large being that your snake is not familiar with only makes things more stressful.

All that said, some ball pythons just "deal with it" and eat and adjust fine. Many people would just rather be safe than worry over a prolonged fast.

If you don't have a copy already, get your hands on "The Ball Python Manual" ... it's available for under $10 on Amazon.com and is a great starting point for ball python info.

-adam

Thank you for the reply. It is funny you mention that book. I purchased it today.

Matt

I have another question for you. (If you don't mind) I have a heat rock. It is for small reptiles. (small cornsnakes etc..) Since it is such a small rock designed for small snakes is it ok for him? Or will he coil on it and get burned?

it is best if you do not use the heat rock at all. use a heat source that can keep your hot side 90-94 and cool side 80-82. i prefer to use flexwatt heat tape and thermostats.


vaughn

I'm with Vaughn on that one ... heat rocks are crap ... ball pythons are much more dependant on proper temperatures than corns and lizards that those heat rocks are commonly pitched for.

Find an alternative form of undertank heat that gives you a good thermal gradient and do yourself and your snake a favor and invest in a quality reliable thermostat. You won't be sorry.

-adam

Thanks alot. I will invest in one tomorrow.

Matt