Concerned about my BP

[Jaq]

So about 2 weeks ago my ball python discovered that he is capable of wiggling under his astro turf so he can hide under there. He has two cave hides on either side of his tank, but ever since he figured out he could get under the turf, he refuses to go into them. The problem is, he hasn't moved for days. I've checked on him a couple times a night, but he's never come out to explore / climb around like he usually does. He is always in the same position as when I leave him. He eats fine and is not going to be shedding anytime soon. Is this something I should be concerned with?

[kameo37]

He apparently just likes that "hide" better. I will say, I don't think astroturf is a great substrate for bps. I've never heard of anyone using that. Maybe try some cypress mulch?

[Annarose15]

I agree with the suggestion to switch substrates. With aspen or cypress (or coco or sani-chips), he can burrow to create his own hides without "trapping" himself under a solid sheet. Astro turf doesn't strike me as the most absorbent or sanitary substrate, either.

[Jaq]

I'll consider other substrate, but I've done research that says as long as the astroturf is the high-quality, shortest threading and is kept very clean, its fine. I've been using it for over two years and have had no problems.

[Rickys_Reptiles]

It's the worst kind of substrate you can use for a Ball Python. It retains absolutely no water, therefore it cannot be used to aid in humidity retention for your snake. It also can't absorb any or your snakes urine, so when its urinates, it is forced to literally lay in its own waste. gross

Take the advise of the above members, and do what’s best for your snake. Change the substrate. Just because you don’t feel like you’ve had problems doesn’t mean your snake wouldn’t be better off with a different substrate.

Since when did the absolute bare minimum become ok?

[dr del]

Hi,

Mine hide under the newspaper for the same reason - it touches them all over in the way a large, rigid, hide will not.

I wouldn't have picked astroturf as a first choice but if you have been using it for two years then you have probably found a way round the problems we associate with it.

If it isn't broken don't fix it. If it is however....

[crepers86]

mine used to hid under its newspaper. I can see Del's point here if you been using it for a long time and it works for you then don't fix it. I learned when I was getting into this hobby (from another forum i'm on for herps) that a slight change in the enclosure can cause a snake to stress a bit and you should treat it like you did when you first got it. such as switching from news paper to aspen. she went off feed for a few weeks, I got tired of the aspen shavings falling all over my floor I switched back to newpaper and I had a ball that was eating again.

but the others had some good advice as well about why you should switch.

[Kaorte]

All my snakes hide under their paper. Its pretty normal.