New to the game

I am new to the whole ball pythons business. I was looking around my area and found a well known breeder of these beautiful creatures. I am wonder ing though about housing 2 snakes together? Is this recommended? If both are pastels and one is male and female does this add any extra complications? Also what size tank should i use? Finally when can i start breeding them as this is what has started me into the whole python world the huge market for unique snakes?
Thanks in Advance starnger

I wouldn't house 2 snakes together, neither would a lot of other people. It can be done since its a male & female, but what you're going to run into is they are going to each try to get the same spot, and that will stress them out. Reason I say this is because you want to provide a small hide, 1 on warm & 1 on cool side, so the snake fits snug in it, to feel secure, especially ball pythons, so if you put 2 snakes in there, this will end up stressing your snakes. Also for breeding, they have a well renounced sticky that has alot of information on breeding them.

Kay thanks alot.

Slow down there cowboy!! First, if you are getting in it for the money, stop now. This is a very fun hobby but very few make money at it. Even if you breed and sell you will probally still be in the hole if you do it right. Second, from the questions you asked it is obvious you have done little research. Enjoy your pets, sit and read every care sheet you can find, especially the one on this site. Then ask the questions on here you can't find answers to. Have fun and good luck.;)

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Originally Posted by FatBoy

Slow down there cowboy!! First, if you are getting in it for the money, stop now. This is a very fun hobby but very few make money at it. Even if you breed and sell you will probally still be in the hole if you do it right. Second, from the questions you asked it is obvious you have done little research. Enjoy your pets, sit and read every care sheet you can find, especially the one on this site. Then ask the questions on here you can't find answers to. Have fun and good luck.;)

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LOL, I wasn't getting into that with him. Figure I would let somebody else talk to him about that subject.

If you have a "well known breeder" in your area, If it is possible I would suggest deffinately trying to spend some time there and thoroughly educate yourself about the subject. I'm not sure what your experience level is as far as reptiles but have your knowlegde in place beforehand. This site has a ton of awesome info absorb it like a sponge.

Yup, like Neal said...do not house 2 snakes together. It is very stressful for them.

As far as tank size, there are varying opinions on this, but I'd say a 30 gal, one for each snake if you get 2. Definitely make sure you read up on the proper care and maintenance so you know everything you have to do to keep them healthy and happy (we have an excellent care sheet here http://ball-pythons.net/modules/Sect...warticle&id=59).

As far as breeding, females have to be pretty large (around 1200 grams) before they are considered breeding size. As far as I know, most breeders wait til the snake is around 2 to 3 years old before they try breeding it...although I guess males can be ready a little earlier than that. Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong :)

But, like another poster said, if you're only getting into it for the money then maybe you should reconsider. You have to really care about your snakes and be willing to put the time and effort (and money) in to do it right :)

thanks guys for the input. The main reason for me breeding them is to have the pleasure of knowing how it feels to have your own snakes that you have not bought. This would come in the next year or 2. Otherwise it is just cause snakes have always fascinated me and have always wanted a couple of snakes.