First Ball Python

[SeanMcCormack]

Hey Im getting my first BP this week, I plan on keeping it in a 48qt sterilite container and was wondering if you guys could give me some tips on how to set the cage up, what to buy, how should i heat the cage, and just general tips for keeping a ball. Responses will be much appreciated

[Nuzum1978]

The best advice I can say from my experience is use newpaper for substrate and invest in a proper thermostat for your heating. I use a Johnson Controls and I feel that it is the best thing I have ever done for my snake.

[mrshawt]

http://www.ball-pythons.net/modules/...warticle&id=59

[Neal]

Read the BP Husbandry articles, they have great ways to setup everything there.

[adrenalinejunkie]

how old/ big is the ball python; a 48qt container is a good size if not abit big for an adult. If it's anything around 2 ft you might want to re-think the size. Too much room can stress out a BP.

[SeanMcCormack]

The snake is about 5ft long

[SeanMcCormack]

http://www.ball-pythons.net/modules/...warticle&id=59

Thanks for the info but I kinda wanted more of a personal response, like more tips and tricks that you have learned from having your BP

[ThunderHeadsGirl]

I believe there's a section somewhere in the forum where everyone has pictures and tips about housing.

I have so many now that we use a rack set up, but for a tank I would suggest newspaper. Easiest to clean and definitly can't hurt the snake as some wood bedding can do.

As for heating and lights, its totaly up to you. I would read about everyone elses housing for tanks as I said before and see if a pattern develops. Everyone seems to do a different thing.

I just would advise against a under tank heater, strongly! Back when I had a tank and only 1 snake, the heating bad got messed up without us noticing and our snakes belly got burned bad

Good luck with everything! Post pictures of your new snake and set up when you can!