Getting A Ball Python

Hello! I am planning on getting a male baby Pastel Ball Python hopefully this semester (I'm in college). I have made a list of supplies I want/need to get for my ball python. I have done plenty of research (and more) but advice would be greatly appreciated. If you believe I am missing something on my list or don't think something on my list is appropriate for a ball python, feel free to add to my list!

~~~

Baby Pastel Ball Python $59.00 + $49.99 Shipping (XYZ Reptiles)
What are your thoughts on this company?

Thermometer Humidity Gauge (two) $14**
One for each side of the tank!

Exo Terra 36 x 18 x 12 Glass Terrarium $149.99***
I realize this is a large tank for a baby, but I will provide my bp with plenty of decorations and hides so he feels comfortable and not so out in the open.

Zoo Med ReptiRock Water Dish $10.12*
Will be getting a large.

Zoo Med Forest Floor (ordering two) $29.98 total****
What is your experience with this substrate?

Zoo Med Reptitherm Under Tank Heater $24.99*
Would the 30-40 gallon 8x12 size be okay?

Feeding Tongs $6.29**

Exo Terra Small Forest Branch $6.53****

Conceptual Creations 13 x 9 x 5 Hideaway $13.19*****
Is this size okay?

Exo Terra Small Moss Vines $10.49*

Conceptual Creations Large Bark Log Reptile Hideaway $12.99*****
Is this size okay?

LATOW Kitchen Scale $11.98**

Pangea Mossy Vine $12.99*

Suction Cup Tree Branch $11.99*

Reptology Green and Red Hanging Vine $8.99*

Suction Cup With Vine Hook (six) total of $3.54*
They each can hold up to three pounds. Should I get the three pound or six pound suction cup hooks? Are a quantity of six okay or should I get more?

Exo Terra Large Ficus Hanging Silk Plant $12.99

Zoo Med Reptisafe Water Conditioner (two) total of $6.98
For the drinking water.

Reptile Thermostat $33.99**
Where exactly do I place this?

Zoo Med Medium Terrarium Moss $4.99*

Temperature Gun $13.99**

Conceptual Creations Mistr $4.59*****
It's just a fine mist spray bottle. I'm going to fill it with water and mist the tank.

F10 SC Veterinary Reptile Disinfectant (3.4 oz) $19.99*
For cleaning the enclosure.

Sea Grape Leaf Litter $5.99*

Zoo Med Wipe Out Disinfectant $5.99*
For cleaning the enclosure.

(*=pangea reptiles
**amazon
***=petsmart
****=chewy
*****=petco)

~~~

Notes:

My ball python will be fed hopper mice (that is what the company I am getting my snake from is feeding and recommended). I am going to start with buying 8-10 hopper mice and go from there. I am ordering from South Florida Rodents.

I will spot clean the tank AT LEAST every other day. I will entirely clean the enclosure once a month. I will switch between using F10 and Zoo Med Wipe Out every other month.

The top of the tank is a mesh(?) filter separated into four sections. I plan on covering 3/4 of the tank lid with aluminum file to help trap in humidity. Would it be okay to put stickers on the top of the aluminum foil just to make the top of the tank look nice?

I plan on not holding my ball python after I get him and place him in his cage for a week so he can get well adjusted to his new environment without added stress.

This is my first reptile and I am very excited. I'm not kidding when I say that my future ball python is the first thing I think of when I get up in the morning!

Also, I am registering my ball python as an emotional support animal. I have depression and anxiety and I believe a pet will be a great deal of help and will benefit my mental health. Animals are very beneficial for helping people.

Hopefully I'm not forgetting to add something. Anyway, advice is appreciated. Thank you!

-Victoria

Hello and welcome!!

Sounds like you're on the right track.

I personally would look elsewhere as far as where to purchase the snake itself though. I've not heard much good about xyz. I would check out morphmarket.com and look around. You can find plenty of reputable breeders on there.

You're not going to want to get hoppers either. BPs eat hoppers right out of the egg for their first few meals, typically 3-5 and quickly move up to small adult mice.

Since this will be your first reptile you want to make sure your new snake is a well-established eater before he comes to you. If you plan to feed F/T (frozen/thawed) prey to your snake you'll want to try to purchase a snake already readily accepting F/T.

Now on to your shopping list... I'll just comment on some of the things that stand out to me:

- you can get thermometer/hygrometer combos cheaper. Many of us use Accurite brand. They can be found at Wal-Mart for $10

- those hides are HUGE for a juvenile BP. You'll want to start smaller. Just stick to simple, cave style hides with single entries. They like them snug and low fitting. Avoid the half log hides, they don't offer the security BPs crave.
It's also beat to have identical hides. This will prevent the snake from choosing security over proper temps.

- you don't need the water conditioner. It's a waste of money and just not needed. They can drink tap water just like you and I.

- for a thermostat, you're better off going with a HerpStat if you can swing the upfront cost. If not, JumpStart is a much better entry level t-stat.

- one thing I noticed, you only have one heat source. Unless the ambient temps in the room where your snake will be kept stay in the upper 70s-low 80s you will need an additional heat source. Your UTH is there solely to provide a hot spot and not for ambient temps. So if your room gets cooler than high 70s you'll need a heat lamp with a CHE (ceramic heat emitter) or heat bulbs or a RHP (radiant heat panel). And remember, ALL heat sources should be regulated by a thermostat.

- Lastly, have your enclosure setup, dialed in and ready to roll before bringing your new snake home.


As for handling, I strongly advise no handling until the snake has eaten three consecutive meals without refusal. You'll have 20+ years to handle the snake, getting him well established should be priority.

This link will teach you how to set up your tank and thermostat: pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?201740-How-to-Setup-a-Glass-Tank-(20-long)-With-Pictures!

This link will teach you about appropriate prey size for your BP: pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?243687-Ball-Python-Feeding-Guidelines

I hope I helped you out! Feel free to ask plenty of questions. The more prepared you are the better the experience will be for you and your new pet.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by craigafrechette

Hello and welcome!!

Sounds like you're on the right track.

I personally would look elsewhere as far as where to purchase the snake itself though. I've not heard much good about xyz. I would check out morphmarket.com and look around. You can find plenty of reputable breeders on there.

You're not going to want to get hoppers either. BPs eat hoppers right out of the egg for their first few meals, typically 3-5 and quickly move up to small adult mice.

Since this will be your first reptile you want to make sure your new snake is a well-established eater before he comes to you. If you plan to feed F/T (frozen/thawed) prey to your snake you'll want to try to purchase a snake already readily accepting F/T.

Now on to your shopping list... I'll just comment on some of the things that stand out to me:

- you can get thermometer/hygrometer combos cheaper. Many of us use Accurite brand. They can be found at Wal-Mart for $10

- those hides are HUGE for a juvenile BP. You'll want to start smaller. Just stick to simple, cave style hides with single entries. They like them snug and low fitting. Avoid the half log hides, they don't offer the security BPs crave.
It's also beat to have identical hides. This will prevent the snake from choosing security over proper temps.

- you don't need the water conditioner. It's a waste of money and just not needed. They can drink tap water just like you and I.

- for a thermostat, you're better off going with a HerpStat if you can swing the upfront cost. If not, JumpStart is a much better entry level t-stat.

- one thing I noticed, you only have one heat source. Unless the ambient temps in the room where your snake will be kept stay in the upper 70s-low 80s you will need an additional heat source. Your UTH is there solely to provide a hot spot and not for ambient temps. So if your room gets cooler than high 70s you'll need a heat lamp with a CHE (ceramic heat emitter) or heat bulbs or a RHP (radiant heat panel). And remember, ALL heat sources should be regulated by a thermostat.

- Lastly, have your enclosure setup, dialed in and ready to roll before bringing your new snake home.


As for handling, I strongly advise no handling until the snake has eaten three consecutive meals without refusal. You'll have 20+ years to handle the snake, getting him well established should be priority.

This link will teach you how to set up your tank and thermostat: pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?201740-How-to-Setup-a-Glass-Tank-(20-long)-With-Pictures!

This link will teach you about appropriate prey size for your BP: pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?243687-Ball-Python-Feeding-Guidelines

I hope I helped you out! Feel free to ask plenty of questions. The more prepared you are the better the experience will be for you and your new pet.

---

Agree with Craig. Cannot stress enough to have setup all dialed in and tested before bringing animal home.

Take it for what it is worth...

You are spending too much for that animal. What I mean by that is not a high dollar animal. It would be much cheaper to get something like that local to you and not incur the shipping costs.

The "weather" outside of the enclosure can dictate the degree of difficulty in keeping the animal's environment right. For example AC zaps humidity and you should equip accordingly.

I think also you are buying way too much stuff up front. A baby ball needs nothing more than a shoe box size plastic container. Focus on the heating and humidity aspects and you will have a much better start to your experience. Once you have it eating, shedding well and growing, then start thinking what you want your final setup to be. A good thermostat, heat gun and heat tape/pad are the most important things to spend money on.

Thank you! I will look into everything you have suggested, glad I posted this! I want to make sure I do everything right!

I agree with Jordan. I'm not sure what your budget is but I'd honestly ditch the Exo Terra tank in favor of a tub set up and use that money to buy a Herpstat thermostat (if you foresee yourself having more than one heat source in the future you might as well get the Herpstat 2) Honestly the best thing you can spend money on and early on. Cannot recommend Herpstats enough!

You can always upgrade baby to their final enclosure later :) and even then you might as well buy a PVC cage like Animal Plastics. Up to you in the end of course!

On top of what everyone else has said so far, I'd like to comment on the Emotional Support Animal aspect. Unless you're living somewhere where pets are not allowed, registering your animal as an ESA is not necessary. In fact, there's not really a good registry system for ESAs, since they don't really need to be registered at all, so the whole thing ends up being a giant process where you throw away a lot of money. The main bulk of the process is going through a doctor to be essentially prescribed a pet. I've gone through this process before, and it is costly and not entirely worth it, IMHO.

If you think a pet will help your anxiety and depression, then just get a pet; don't worry about having an ESA. In fact, you'll get a lot more grief than you bargain for if your ESA is anything other than a cat or a dog, even though ESAs can be other kinds of animals, though it is more tricky to get a recommendation for a reptile ESA. If you're living somewhere where pets in general are not allowed, forcing their hand with an official ESA recommendation for a reptile is tricky business. Anywhere that allows pets will generally also allow reptiles that are secured in tanks.

I don't mean to step on any toes here, but in general, I think an animal doesn't really need to be an official working animal unless it is a service animal that will be required to be with you at all times. Otherwise, it's just a pet, doing what pets do, which certainly includes helping with mental disorders! I also have anxiety and depression, and have a lot of pets. They all help, but none of them are ESAs because they just don't need to be.

Sounds like you’ve gotten a lot of good advice to help guide your further research! One thing I would encourage that I didn’t see mentioned yet is to check out your local reptile and exotic animal expos!

At these expos you’ll get to meet and network with local reptile enthusiasts, browse hundreds of ball pythons (and other herps) and check them out in person, hold them, get an idea of their health and temperament, ask the breeder any questions in person, etc... vs just looking at pictures on morphmarket and corresponding through email. Plus you’ll have a wider variety of morph options available to you for your price range as there should be no shipping required, and there will be lots of reptile supplies, caging, feeders and so on for lower prices than generally offered in store or online. So TONS of pros, especially if you still need to purchase supplies and caging. Pet stores will generally gouge you pretty good and you’d be surprised at the quality low price options you’ll find at an expo.

I see you’re in Louisiana, I used to live in Lafayette and I’ve heard expos are held at least once yearly there and in Westwego near NOLA, just to name a couple venues. I’m sure there are plenty more though. I hope this helps!!

I would also like to add, that as a university student who helped train service animals for my pre-veterinary society, and who used to run into issues with confused college students claiming their ESA’s are “registered service animals”— there is no official registry for ESA’s. They are all scams. Don’t waste your money on them, if you do plan to have your ball python as an ESA then a doctors note stating why you need the animal for your mental health is the only officially required piece of documentation you will need and any website stating otherwise is out for your money.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by skydnay

On top of what everyone else has said so far, I'd like to comment on the Emotional Support Animal aspect. Unless you're living somewhere where pets are not allowed, registering your animal as an ESA is not necessary. In fact, there's not really a good registry system for ESAs, since they don't really need to be registered at all, so the whole thing ends up being a giant process where you throw away a lot of money. The main bulk of the process is going through a doctor to be essentially prescribed a pet. I've gone through this process before, and it is costly and not entirely worth it, IMHO.

If you think a pet will help your anxiety and depression, then just get a pet; don't worry about having an ESA. In fact, you'll get a lot more grief than you bargain for if your ESA is anything other than a cat or a dog, even though ESAs can be other kinds of animals, though it is more tricky to get a recommendation for a reptile ESA. If you're living somewhere where pets in general are not allowed, forcing their hand with an official ESA recommendation for a reptile is tricky business. Anywhere that allows pets will generally also allow reptiles that are secured in tanks.

I don't mean to step on any toes here, but in general, I think an animal doesn't really need to be an official working animal unless it is a service animal that will be required to be with you at all times. Otherwise, it's just a pet, doing what pets do, which certainly includes helping with mental disorders! I also have anxiety and depression, and have a lot of pets. They all help, but none of them are ESAs because they just don't need to be.

---

Animals at my dorms aren't allowed unless they are a service animal or esa! I should have put that, my bad! I have already talked to housing about it and they just told me to get approval from my therapist and of course approval from my roommate (already granted). There is a fumigation fee at the end of the semester ($100 I believe), not sure if it applies to a caged animal or not.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Trisnake

Sounds like you’ve gotten a lot of good advice to help guide your further research! One thing I would encourage that I didn’t see mentioned yet is to check out your local reptile and exotic animal expos!

At these expos you’ll get to meet and network with local reptile enthusiasts, browse hundreds of ball pythons (and other herps) and check them out in person, hold them, get an idea of their health and temperament, ask the breeder any questions in person, etc... vs just looking at pictures on morphmarket and corresponding through email. Plus you’ll have a wider variety of morph options available to you for your price range as there should be no shipping required, and there will be lots of reptile supplies, caging, feeders and so on for lower prices than generally offered in store or online. So TONS of pros, especially if you still need to purchase supplies and caging. Pet stores will generally gouge you pretty good and you’d be surprised at the quality low price options you’ll find at an expo.

I see you’re in Louisiana, I used to live in Lafayette and I’ve heard expos are held at least once yearly there and in Westwego near NOLA, just to name a couple venues. I’m sure there are plenty more though. I hope this helps!!

---

Yes, thank you, I'll look into it! It's not my first time being around herps; I am a vet tech major but what you said sounds really cool! I remember the first time I held a ball python a couple years ago - I fell in love!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Trisnake

I would also like to add, that as a university student who helped train service animals for my pre-veterinary society, and who used to run into issues with confused college students claiming their ESA’s are “registered service animals”— there is no official registry for ESA’s. They are all scams. Don’t waste your money on them, if you do plan to have your ball python as an ESA then a doctors note stating why you need the animal for your mental health is the only officially required piece of documentation you will need and any website stating otherwise is out for your money.

---

Oh yeah, I apologize I didn't mean spending money on a scam. I should have been more clear, my university just wants me to get a note from my therapist!

Something you should think about, since you're still living in dorms, is your long term living arrangements.

Where will you be living after the dorms? Many apartments don't allow pets, and many that do will not allow exotics. Also, as a young college grad you'll likely need a roommate after graduation. And having a snake will scare off a LOT of potential roommates.

It may be worth waiting until you're well situated with a solid job and place to live. Bet bills aren't cheap and for a college student or recent grad I know money is often tight.

Just some thoughts....

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by vrp98

Animals at my dorms aren't allowed unless they are a service animal or esa! I should have put that, my bad! I have already talked to housing about it and they just told me to get approval from my therapist and of course approval from my roommate (already granted). There is a fumigation fee at the end of the semester ($100 I believe), not sure if it applies to a caged animal or not.

---

One more thing, about that "fumigation fee": whether you live in a dorm or any other rental that allows pets, OR any that has any chance of getting "bugs" (which is
pretty much ALL rentals), when they fumigate a place, they may not take into account any pets living there, especially if it's not typical. The chemicals used are lethal
to bugs, but also to snakes & other small pets, and you may or may NOT be forewarned to house your pet elsewhere for a few days when this fumigation is done.

Many years ago I shared an apartment while in college. Someone in the building had a cat (that they weren't supposed to have) & that cat's fleas infested the ENTIRE
building, all apartments. While I was in class one day they came & fumigated the building without any advance warning...I came home to a dead pet hamster. When
you remember just how much many people dislike snakes, they just might harm your pet intentionally too. Please check & re-check as to whether such spraying might
happen without warning.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by craigafrechette

Something you should think about, since you're still living in dorms, is your long term living arrangements.

Where will you be living after the dorms? Many apartments don't allow pets, and many that do will not allow exotics. Also, as a young college grad you'll likely need a roommate after graduation. And having a snake will scare off a LOT of potential roommates.

It may be worth waiting until you're well situated with a solid job and place to live. Bet bills aren't cheap and for a college student or recent grad I know money is often tight.

Just some thoughts....

---

I go to college in a town an hour away from my parents. I actually still live with my parents when I am not living at my dorm. Once I graduate I will most likely stay with my parents until I find a place that is suitable and allows exotic pets. I have actually called around at different apartments in my college town and the city where my parents live, and most of them allow pets/exotic pets. I have thought about these things and I am not gonna let any obstacles get in my way. I also won't buy my snake until I have enough money saved up for potential vet bills. Speaking of, I am getting a job as a student worker this semester and will probably stay with that job until I graduate. Anyway, I understand where you are coming from and I appreciate your advice.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Bogertophis

One more thing, about that "fumigation fee": whether you live in a dorm or any other rental that allows pets, OR any that has any chance of getting "bugs" (which is
pretty much ALL rentals), when they fumigate a place, they may not take into account any pets living there, especially if it's not typical. The chemicals used are lethal
to bugs, but also to snakes & other small pets, and you may or may NOT be forewarned to house your pet elsewhere for a few days when this fumigation is done.

Many years ago I shared an apartment while in college. Someone in the building had a cat (that they weren't supposed to have) & that cat's fleas infested the ENTIRE
building, all apartments. While I was in class one day they came & fumigated the building without any advance warning...I came home to a dead pet hamster. When
you remember just how much many people dislike snakes, they just might harm your pet intentionally too. Please check & re-check as to whether such spraying might
happen without warning.

---

The fumigation is done in my dorm/room and is After I move out. Thank you for the warning though.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by vrp98

I go to college in a town an hour away from my parents. I actually still live with my parents when I am not living at my dorm. Once I graduate I will most likely stay with my parents until I find a place that is suitable and allows exotic pets. I have actually called around at different apartments in my college town and the city where my parents live, and most of them allow pets/exotic pets. I have thought about these things and I am not gonna let any obstacles get in my way. I also won't buy my snake until I have enough money saved up for potential vet bills. Speaking of, I am getting a job as a student worker this semester and will probably stay with that job until I graduate. Anyway, I understand where you are coming from and I appreciate your advice.

---

Sounds like you've got some good plans and you've thought ahead. Nice work!!! :gj:

I don't think I saw anyone mention Vivarium t-stats? They are not quite as exspensive as a herp stat but still have a very good name in the reptile community! Enjoy your new pet!

Save your money. That tank is way too big, humidity is difficult to keep up in glass tanks, and any sign of the bp feels stressed about will trigger it not to eat for you, which in turn will stress you out immensely as a first time owner, especially you have anxiety issues. My suggestion would be to get a good eater, easier to care for and docile snake like a corn. You can make mistakes with corn and they are forgiving. Bp's are not so much and for that reason, not a good starter pet. I have bad anxiety myself (Not as bad as most other people so I'm grateful) so watching my first snake, a bp, not eat for 3 weeks was not an easy time for me.

With that said, I would recommend a 6 qt sterilite tub that you can pick up at your local Target or Wal-Mart for less than $6. Then there are the 6 inch plastic flower dishes you can pick up at Home Depot for less than a $1. While you are at Wal-Mart or you can find this at Petco, pick up a small ceramic or glass dish for water. I bought mine at Petco meant for kittens for less than $2. I would skip the substrate for now during the quarantine process but a small bag of aspen, eco earth or cypress mulch can be picked up for less than $10. UTH and thermostat come in different brands. I use Zilla for UTH and different thermostats. Some posters will have their recommendations. You will have to go with what you are comfortable with.

Like the others mentioned, hoppers are too small but stay on it for 2 meals then upgrade to small mouse/rat pinkies.

Make sure this pet will stay with you for the next 20-30 years. The market is flooded with bp's and people are always trying to rehome theirs. XYZ reptiles is not far from where I am and I have seen their stock in person sold by their partner. It is a hit or miss. I do notice they are a little overpriced compared to others.

There are other pets that have less of a long term commitment. A golden hamster is a good one. They sleep during the day while you are in class, wide awake at night, can be handled if you work with it, and less reluctant to bite. They live a short lifespan of about 3 years, 4 or 5 years is rare. But you won't have to worry much about rehoming it after college. The cost of care is very minimal too, a large tub drilled with holes and a homemade mesh top is affordable and preferred over store bought hamster cages.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Cheesenugget

Save your money. That tank is way too big, humidity is difficult to keep up in glass tanks, and any sign of the bp feels stressed about will trigger it not to eat for you, which in turn will stress you out immensely as a first time owner, especially you have anxiety issues. My suggestion would be to get a good eater, easier to care for and docile snake like a corn. You can make mistakes with corn and they are forgiving. Bp's are not so much and for that reason, not a good starter pet. I have bad anxiety myself (Not as bad as most other people so I'm grateful) so watching my first snake, a bp, not eat for 3 weeks was not an easy time for me.

---

I have to whole-heartedly disagree here. First of all, get the snake YOU want. It'll be YOUR snake after all. BPs are honestly not any harder to keep than corns. I've kept both. BPs can be frustrating with their food strikes, but if you understand the animals going in you'll understand it happens. That's what BPs do. They are well equipped to go months without food and have survived thousands of years doing so.
And as for glass, if you like glass go glass. I started keeping snakes in 1999-2000ish and have used glass the entire time I've been keeping snakes. I just recently bought my first PVC enclosure, but primarily so I can start stacking and consolidate my enclosures rather than have glass enclosures all over the house (plus this makes room for more snakes ;)). But glass works just fine. It might take a little more effort of the bat, and maybe a few modifications, but it works well. If you want glass, go glass.

Cheesenugget, I mean no disrespect, but I disagree. BPs are the most popular snake in the pet trade for a reason. They really aren't difficult to care for. And I've had years of success with using glass. It takes a little effort, but I'm happy to put in the effort for my pets.

Late to the party here.

A few thoughts.

1. Did I see a thermostat on that list? If not, it's a must. All heat sources must be regulated. If I missed it, sorry, but it's super important. If you are unsure of what to get or where to get a thermostat, please ask.

2. Aside from being more difficult, although not impossible, to maintain heat and humidity in, glass tanks are also heavy and bulky. I would consider a better enclosure, from Animal Plastics, Boaphile, etc. for the better heat and humidity control, but also because if you are moving the tank periodically (different dorm rooms, to your parents house, to an apartment, etc.) a 3X2' or even a 4X2' plastic enclosure weighs significantly less than even a medium sized glass tank.

3. I wouldn't recommend Wipe Out by zoomed. Use F10! However, make sure to use F10SC: http://www.reptilebasics.com/F10SC-100ml. Spray, let sit for 5-10 minutes (depending on what you are cleaning, how often, and concentration of the F10SC), wipe up excess, and done. It also forms a protective layer in the tank to help the next cleanup.

4. As stated, one heat source, and a UTH at that, is probably not enough. UTH are great for belly heat, but do not warm the air. BP's temps should be 87-90F hot side, 80-84F ambient, and 78-80F cool side, with a good gradient. You will probably need a Ceramic Heat Emitter (CHE) as well, if using a glass tank, or a RHP if using a plastic enclosure. When you get a thermostat, make sure it's one that can handle two heating sources.

Just my initial thoughts and opinions.

Keep us in the loop. We are here to help.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by craigafrechette

I have to whole-heartedly disagree here. First of all, get the snake YOU want. It'll be YOUR snake after all. BPs are honestly not any harder to keep than corns. I've kept both. BPs can be frustrating with their food strikes, but if you understand the animals going in you'll understand it happens. That's what BPs do. They are well equipped to go months without food and have survived thousands of years doing so.
And as for glass, if you like glass go glass. I started keeping snakes in 1999-2000ish and have used glass the entire time I've been keeping snakes. I just recently bought my first PVC enclosure, but primarily so I can start stacking and consolidate my enclosures rather than have glass enclosures all over the house (plus this makes room for more snakes ;)). But glass works just fine. It might take a little more effort of the bat, and maybe a few modifications, but it works well. If you want glass, go glass.

Cheesenugget, I mean no disrespect, but I disagree. BPs are the most popular snake in the pet trade for a reason. They really aren't difficult to care for. And I've had years of success with using glass. It takes a little effort, but I'm happy to put in the effort for my pets.

---

^This. There have been plenty of new keepers starting with ball pythons as their first snake and being successful because they put the time and dedication to thoroughly research beforehand instead of rushing when they weren’t ready. Once you learn what is necessary for their care and understand what to expect, their husbandry is very straightforward. Just don’t cut corners and dive in without being prepared. Research, research, research!

Not to mention I always felt it was unfair to the snakes considered “beginner friendly” for new owners just to settle for them as a mere stepping stone in experience.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by MissterDog

^This. There have been plenty of new keepers starting with ball pythons as their first snake and being successful because they put the time and dedication to thoroughly research beforehand instead of rushing when they weren’t ready. Once you learn what is necessary for their care and understand what to expect, their husbandry is very straightforward. Just don’t cut corners and dive in without being prepared. Research, research, research!

Not to mention I always felt it was unfair to the snakes considered “beginner friendly” for new owners just to settle for them as a mere stepping stone in experience.

---

Well said.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by craigafrechette

I have to whole-heartedly disagree here. First of all, get the snake YOU want. It'll be YOUR snake after all. BPs are honestly not any harder to keep than corns. I've kept both. BPs can be frustrating with their food strikes, but if you understand the animals going in you'll understand it happens. That's what BPs do. They are well equipped to go months without food and have survived thousands of years doing so.
And as for glass, if you like glass go glass. I started keeping snakes in 1999-2000ish and have used glass the entire time I've been keeping snakes. I just recently bought my first PVC enclosure, but primarily so I can start stacking and consolidate my enclosures rather than have glass enclosures all over the house (plus this makes room for more snakes ;)). But glass works just fine. It might take a little more effort of the bat, and maybe a few modifications, but it works well. If you want glass, go glass.

Cheesenugget, I mean no disrespect, but I disagree. BPs are the most popular snake in the pet trade for a reason. They really aren't difficult to care for. And I've had years of success with using glass. It takes a little effort, but I'm happy to put in the effort for my pets.

---

Thank you! I have read that Ball Pythons are picky eaters and if I encounter a real problem (not eating + losing weight) then I will start to worry. I’ve done a lot of research and I am aware of possible problems that might come with keeping a ball python (lack of eating, humidity, etc). But yes a ball python is the animal that i am wanting. I’ve had rodents for years actually and while they are certainly rewarding they are hard to care for because they can so easily get ill. And while all snakes are really cool and all, a ball python is the snake i want! Thank you for all your help really!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by dakski

Late to the party here.

A few thoughts.

1. Did I see a thermostat on that list? If not, it's a must. All heat sources must be regulated. If I missed it, sorry, but it's super important. If you are unsure of what to get or where to get a thermostat, please ask.

2. Aside from being more difficult, although not impossible, to maintain heat and humidity in, glass tanks are also heavy and bulky. I would consider a better enclosure, from Animal Plastics, Boaphile, etc. for the better heat and humidity control, but also because if you are moving the tank periodically (different dorm rooms, to your parents house, to an apartment, etc.) a 3X2' or even a 4X2' plastic enclosure weighs significantly less than even a medium sized glass tank.

3. I wouldn't recommend Wipe Out by zoomed. Use F10! However, make sure to use F10SC: http://www.reptilebasics.com/F10SC-100ml. Spray, let sit for 5-10 minutes (depending on what you are cleaning, how often, and concentration of the F10SC), wipe up excess, and done. It also forms a protective layer in the tank to help the next cleanup.

4. As stated, one heat source, and a UTH at that, is probably not enough. UTH are great for belly heat, but do not warm the air. BP's temps should be 87-90F hot side, 80-84F ambient, and 78-80F cool side, with a good gradient. You will probably need a Ceramic Heat Emitter (CHE) as well, if using a glass tank, or a RHP if using a plastic enclosure. When you get a thermostat, make sure it's one that can handle two heating sources.

Just my initial thoughts and opinions.

Keep us in the loop. We are here to help.

---

yes, i have revised my list! One of the first people who commented on this thread posted a link that was very helpful in figuring out exactly what I need to maintain humidity!

also, I was planning on switching between f10 and zoo med wipe out every other month. I would be fine with just using f10, but i read somewhere that if you use it often it’s bad for your snake? To be clear, I’m gonna spot clean everyday when I can and use the spray once a month to fully clean the entire enclosure.

Here is my updated list.



Baby Pastel Ball Python $59.00 + $49.99 Shipping (XYZ Reptiles)


~~~

Reptile Basics Inc.
Ultratherm Undertank Heater 6”x11” $16.99
Aluminum Foil Tape $12.99
Dome Fixture 8.5” 150 Watt Capacity $12.99
Ceramic Heat Emitter 100 Watt $9.99
2 Small Hide Boxes $5.98
Medium Crock Dish $2.99

Amazon
Jump Start Digital Thermostat $34.87
Feeding Tongs $6.29
LATOW Kitchen Scale $11.98
Temperature Gun $13.99

PetSmart
Zoo Med Nocturnal Reptile Infrared Heat Lamp 100 Watt $9.99
Exo Terra 36 x 18 x 12 Glass Terrarium $149.99

Walmart
Digital Thermometer $15.35

Home Depot
Credenza Plug In Dimmer $14.97

Chewy
Zoo Med Forest Floor (ordering two) $29.98 total
Exo Terra Small Forest Branch $6.53
Petco
Conceptual Creations Mister $4.59

Pangea Reptile
Exo Terra Small Moss Vines $10.49
Pangea Mossy Vine $12.99
Suction Cup Tree Branch $11.99
Reptology Green and Red Hanging Vine $8.99
Suction Cup With Vine Hook (six) total of $3.54
Exo Terra Large Ficus Hanging Silk Plant $12.99
Zoo Med Medium Terrarium Moss $4.99
F10 SC Veterinary Reptile Disinfectant (3.4 oz) $19.99
Sea Grape Leaf Litter $5.99
Zoo Med Wipe Out Disinfectant $5.99

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Knowell

I don't think I saw anyone mention Vivarium t-stats? They are not quite as exspensive as a herp stat but still have a very good name in the reptile community! Enjoy your new pet!

---

Yes, i saw that online on reptile basics i think but no one mentioned it!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by vrp98

Thank you! I have read that Ball Pythons are picky eaters and if I encounter a real problem (not eating + losing weight) then I will start to worry. I’ve done a lot of research and I am aware of possible problems that might come with keeping a ball python (lack of eating, humidity, etc). But yes a ball python is the animal that i am wanting. I’ve had rodents for years actually and while they are certainly rewarding they are hard to care for because they can so easily get ill. And while all snakes are really cool and all, a ball python is the snake i want! Thank you for all your help really!

---

I think in most cases the people who have a hard time with BPs or don't consider them to be "beginner" snakes simply aren't prepared. Don't get me wrong, this isn't always the case, but we so often see threads that start out with "my BP won't eat" or similar situations and their setups are all wrong or they're trying to feed the wrong prey or their idea of research is googling a care sheet or two.

Bottom line: get the animal you want. It makes absolutely no sense to me to get a "starter" snake like a corn or King just because they have slightly less demanding husbandry requirements. BPs simply don't require much more, they can just be annoying eaters. You're going to have this animal for 20+ years, it's just asinine to me to suggest somebody get a pet they don't want.

If you've done PROPER research (a 20 minute google search will tell you that BPs can be finicky eaters), put in the due diligence, know you can provide the proper care, vet bills, etc... and want a BP.....get a BP.

OP: I can already tell you're well on your way to being a great snake parent. :gj:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by craigafrechette

I think in most cases the people who have a hard time with BPs or don't consider them to be "beginner" snakes simply aren't prepared. Don't get me wrong, this isn't always the case, but we so often see threads that start out with "my BP won't eat" or similar situations and their setups are all wrong or they're trying to feed the wrong prey or their idea of research is googling a care sheet or two.

Bottom line: get the animal you want. It makes absolutely no sense to me to get a "starter" snake like a corn or King just because they have slightly less demanding husbandry requirements. BPs simply don't require much more, they can just be annoying eaters. You're going to have this animal for 20+ years, it's just asinine to me to suggest somebody get a pet they don't want.

If you've done PROPER research (a 20 minute google search will tell you that BPs can be finicky eaters), put in the due diligence, know you can provide the proper care, vet bills, etc... and want a BP.....get a BP.

OP: I can already tell you're well on your way to being a great snake parent. :gj:

---

Thank you so much!