New Ball Python Owner

Hi,

I have wanted a Ball Python all my life and have finally decided to purchase one.
I really just need to know where I should purchase one.. I've been reading that store-bought Ball Pythons (Petco, Petsmart, etc) are usually wild caught, have mites, and are poorly cared for. If not for that, I would probably already have one by now.

I came across this site.. "www.lllreptile.com", not sure if it's legit though.

Also, is it okay to have them shipped during this time of year? Can they survive the cold?..or are they shipped a specific way to prevent the cold?

Thanks

Not sure where you're located but I'd suggest buying from a reptile shop or reputable breeder. The site you referred to is legit, located in socal. I've never bought from them but I know people who have. I'm not sure what research that you have done, but I'd make sure to look up BP care and Husbandry before you get the snake. Having everything set up and warm prior to getting the snake home will allow for an easier transition to the new environment. As for shipping, Yes, they are shipped a specific way...insulated box, heat packs, etc. However, its usually dependent upon weather condition. Most won't or shouldn't ship if forecast is too cold or too hot. Good luck and enjoy your new snake.

Search for a local breeder.. You can find normals from co-dom pairings that are perfectly healthy and taken care of.
Be aware of the risks purchasing animals from large scale resale operations..

I've had good luck with Justin Kobylka Reptiles, here is a link

http://www.jkobylkareptiles.com/index.php

they have awesome snkaes seen them at ny show and the prices are great..... congrats

I'm getting 2 ball pythons shipped to me this week. I do live in Florida and the Breeder (Justin Kobylka) is in Georgia so it isn't cold anywhere in-between. If you are dealing with a good breeder they will be able to tell you if it is safe to ship or not. Most of them have a page on their website that says that they have the right to postpone the shipping of animals if they feel that it is not safe due to weather.

I have bought supplies from lllReptiles, they seem ok but I have never seen any of their animals.