Questions regarding enclosure size

[SimonPalmieri]

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?

[tttaylorrr]

welcome to the forum!

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

[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.

[tttaylorrr]

Thanks tttaylorrr!

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

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!

[JodanOrNoDan]

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.

[Oxylepy]

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.

[tttaylorrr]

Honestly, I'd see if it eats.

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.