Questions regarding enclosure size

Hi there,
It's been about a week since I got my ball python (he's 7 months old, approximately 2 feet long) and I've realised that the current tank I have is far too large and would like to downsize ASAP. I found this guide stickied on the forum that has instructions on how to setup a glass tank. Do you guys think a 20 long (20 gallon) tank would be a good size for my BP? Or should I go for something like a 30 gallon instead?

welcome to the forum!

20gal would be better than 30gal for a 7mo old. how's he eating now?

Thanks tttaylorrr!

I got him on Saturday and was told to feed him in a week so I actually haven't fed him yet.

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Originally Posted by SimonPalmieri

Thanks tttaylorrr!

I got him on Saturday and was told to feed him in a week so I actually haven't fed him yet.

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oh i overlooked that you just got him lol. but new snakes need about a week to adjust to their new home, so it's fine he hasn't eaten. however once you move him into the 20gal you'll need to give him another 5-7 days to adjust: no handling, no feeding, minimal enclosure checks.

let us know how it goes! :gj:

I am probably going to get ignored... again... but here is the honest truth, for a new BP owner a tub setup is the best bet. Get the animal settled in and feeding consistently. Wait till it is 600 grams or even better, larger before attempting a tank setup. Things are way easier on both the owner and the snake. I would say close to half the threads on here have to do with husbandry issues, most of which are tank related.

Honestly, I'd see if it eats. Too large of an enclosure isn't the biggest problem with a ball python, security is. A bunch of tight hides, make sure the humidity and heat are where they need to be, and see if it eats.

And, yes, a tub is superior for ball pythons. It offers a sense of security and is very easy to maintain for a keeper.

I was keeping hatchlings in an adult tub. I put a dinner plate in there for them and most of them were fine, although I did have a lot of overflow and needed to put the rest in smaller tubs.

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Originally Posted by Oxylepy

Honestly, I'd see if it eats.

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that's what i was going to suggest as well, and why i asked if it had eaten yet.

OP: tubs are definitely easier for new snake owners and baby snakes alike, so if you're interested in a tub setup we can tell you what you need to know.