Ball Python owner looking into GTP's.... need input

I guess most of my questions are on husbandry differences, but have a few general questions.

So, I've had my first BP (first snake) a little over a year now. She's a female Mojave, just around 1000g. She was about a month and a half old when I got her from a breeder and weighed 65g. She started out in a small enclosure and has been living the past 9 months or so in a T8. I learned my lesson that it's better to spend the money on a good enclosure/heat source/thermostat combo up front. :)

That being said, I think Green Tree Python's are absolutely gorgeous. I've been doing some research on them for the past month or so, and am seriously considering making a purchase in the next few months. Is this a bad move with only a year of snake ownership under my belt?

-I know they need a little more vertical space, so I'll get an enclosure to fulfill those needs.

-I use RHP's for my bp, is that the heat of choice for GTP's also?

-I've read the GTP's prefer a little more moisture and may drink more from misting than their water bowl. Would it be best to incorporate a misting system into the enclosure load-out?

-I have also been told their temperament varies more than a BP, but they will tolerate some handling. How true is this?

Any other thoughts/suggestions/words of wisdom?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by LittleTreeGuy

-I use RHP's for my bp, is that the heat of choice for GTP's also?


-I've read the GTP's prefer a little more moisture and may drink more from misting than their water bowl. Would it be best to incorporate a misting system into the enclosure load-out?


-I have also been told their temperament varies more than a BP, but they will tolerate some handling. How true is this?


Any other thoughts/suggestions/words of wisdom?

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RHP will be fine. I use ambient room heating, so I have no experience with this. But a GTP will spend most of it's time perched. Be sure to arrange the highest perch at an appropriate height to maximize the RHP.


No need for a misting system, I've always just provided water bowls without problem.


These are not BPs. The GTPs I've kept have tolerated handling fairly well, but they're not going to just sit there like a BP. They can be squirmy. Attempting to handle them or enter their enclosures after dark is foolhardy. They're spring loaded for the strike then.

I personally have never really bought into the "starter snake" idea. Research until you find what you like then research research research. Know everything there is to know about the animal you are interested in. Then get your enclosure system set up. Some creatures are more tolerant than others when it comes to variations in climate, this is where knowledge and prep pays off. Even the most finicky creatures can be kept if your enclosure meets their needs.
With that said, the species you are interested in can be finicky. They range in temperment from puppy dog tame to devil children. Their caging requirements are rather particular. I highly recommend a book called "the complete chondro". If you have the means to give it the proper set up you should be fine.