Young BP died within a week

I'm very new to reptiles and am wondering what I did wrong. Purchased a young BP from a reptile shop, and he died within a week.
Set up; 50 gallon tank with UTH and ceramic heat element, plenty of items in the tank to make it not feel so big as to stress out the smaller snake. Hides on both hot and cold side. Gradient is 90 hot 80 cold, + or - a degree or 2. Humidity sits at 60%.

Yesterday, I attempted a feed, and he refused, last night he was just laying in the middle of the cage, not moving, not in a hide, just laying there. This morning he's dead. What the hell happened?

Not all are meant to survive. You could try contacting the store and explaining the situation. Maybe they'll offer you a replacement or store credit. Sorry for your loss.

The store did offer me credit. I'm more worried that it was something I did or didn't do.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Jwitt

The store did offer me credit. I'm more worried that it was something I did or didn't do.

---

That's great that the store offered a store credit. Hey listen, there was more than likely a preexisting illness this snake already had. I would bet on it. These animals don't get sick right away and die within a weeks time. There is a small percent of animals that have genetic, or congenital defects where it is possible for them to succumb to a early or unexplained death. However that is the exception more than the rule. It's more likely the animal was ill when he was in the care of the store and remained that way. It was probably ill when you purchased him and spiraled down afterwards. They don't get sick quickly, they harbor illnesses for some time and don't recover quickly either. So sorry you had to experience this and lose your Python. I would consider purchasing from a reputable breeder next for a animal whose health will more than likely be guaranteed. Don't blame yourself at all.

Thank you for the knowledge.

Aw sorry for the loss.

You mentioned running both a heat lamp and a UTH. Did you have thermostats on them?

You could use that store credit to get some things for the next ball python. Please be sure to sanitize anything you plan to reuse.

I'm sorry for your loss.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by bcr229

You mentioned running both a heat lamp and a UTH. Did you have thermostats on them?

---

I do employ a thermostat and have stick on thermometers and a laser thermometer to verify accuracy.

Can you give me a few names of trusted breeders that offer shipping? I was considering snakes at sunset, but I have read mixed reviews.