Ball Python: Beginner or expert?

Thank you SO MUCH, everyone!:) I'll check out the care sheet!

I agree w everyone else. The snake itself is very easy to take care of and not a naturally nippy species. It is the initial set up cost that makes them fall somewhere between beginner and intermediate. Things like UTH, thermostat, thermometer/hygrometer, 2 identical hides, etc, are required. These are things a lot of people don't do right in the beginning and end up with problems. Plus BPs can be fussy eaters but coming here is a great first step to ensure you do the right thing from the very start.

I think for the most part the people that have trouble try to cut corners in the beginning. Make sure you have a good thermostat, accurate thermometer, and 2 identical hides. Get everything right in the enclosure before bringing the snake home. I think about 90% of your problems can be solved before they happen with the proper husbandry. If you are good at reading and following directions without trying to cut corners I think ball pythons are pretty easy to keep healthy and happy.

I think as long as you get the enclosure set up correctly before you put the BP into it, they can be considered a beginner snake. They're just not for those who are lazy! My first three snakes were all BPs then I went to the easier Milks. I've had little trouble properly caring for them and quite frankly I attribute all my success to this forum. I really could not have properly done it without the advice of everyone here. I've now rehabilitated two rescues and gotten the third off of a ten month feeding strike. Nothing to it. ;)

EDIT: And they're certainly not cheap! They do require a bit of money for proper enclosure and supplies. (ie. heat pad, thermostat, etc.)