Will be first time snake owner, hello all

[BryceE]

I was going to get an open from front enclosure and was going to cover all the sides except the opening like I've seen in a few threads here. Figured that would help them feel more secure. And while I do want a more active snake like a boa, I don't think it's for me just starting out and plus they get huge so not sure if that's the type of snake for me being a first timer to the snake world. Still going to talk to the guy tomorrow to get some more information from him and what not before I actually make a decision.

[anicatgirl]

Not berating you for you age, I hope you know. Feel free to bring back his advice and run it by folks here if you want. We'll give you experienced and honest thoughts

[BryceE]

Insomnia sucks. 4:34am here.

I was planning on running what the guy said past everyone here just to make sure he does indeed know what he's talking about/doing. But I feel like he does but you never know. After seeing pictures of those UTH burns on snakes I'm really trying to do my research on that and prevent that from happening to mine. Still not sure on ball python or boa though, even though boas get a lot bigger, it takes what like 15 years to do that and from the experience I get early on I feel like would be enough at that later stage. And yes, I'm aware all snakes live like 20+ years well taken care of.

[Tash]

It really comes down to personal preference I think. Which is hard when you don't have experience yet with either. Ball pythons are definitely the ideal beginner snake in my opinion, require smaller living spaces because of their smaller size and tend to be super manageable and docile (apparently mine didn't get that memo lol). But what you said is true, you'll have this snake for a long time so it's important to get what you want within reason. I think you've already gotten all the pros and cons of both. I'm assuming the guy has his snakes at the store your visiting? See if he will let you check out and handle both just to get a feel. I know they are baby's so it's hard to judge now, but sometimes when you see the animals you just know which one will be right. If you're worried you can always start with a Ball and after giving it some time pick up a Boa. I'm totally in the Boa camp though, just love them, so it's hard not push them on people because in the end, it's what they want.

[BryceE]

The only balls and boas he has at the store at kinda grown. His personal snakes are at his home. I guess a grown ball or boa would be a better idea how manageable they are. And boas won't be as finicky to feed as balls would be. I also have two indoor dogs I need to look after as well, not saying they'll be out together or even in the same room and what not, just something to think about.

How much of an escape artist are boas though? Them being active makes me think they're going to try and get out a lot.

[Tash]

I've never actually had a snake escape on me. I've always been very careful about locking everything up but then again I'm paranoid so I always have to check everything twice. I will say that ball pythons can be just as clever when it comes to escaping, so from what I've been told/read, they are equally matched in this department. I can't comment for sure though. Just be extra careful and you shouldn't have an escapee. I also can't comment much on the dog situation other then keep them separated best you can.

[anicatgirl]

Woo hoo for insomnia!!!! 4:32am here in Kansas. They both can be good at escaping, I would say that boas are better just because they get bigger and therefore could put more force behind it. That's one reason why I don't like the screen lids; the locks are meh at best. And yup, Tash is right, separation is the ideal. Safest for all involved.

IF he has both kinds of snakes in his shop, even if it isn't the specific snake you would end up with, I would say hold a couple adults, one of each species. That will give you a feel for size and strength. And let you get associated with the way they behave in general. I have yet to convince myself to have a snake shipped to me, in that I want them for their personality and temperament just as much as their beauty. I like to hold them and get to "know" them a little before I bring them home. Where are you located? Folks might be able to suggest a breeder in your area.

[BryceE]

He's got both, females of them though. I'll probably get a male just for the sake of them being slightly smaller. And I'm in North Carolina, not that many places around here that I've noticed that breed.

[Karnage Reptiles]

He's got both, females of them though. I'll probably get a male just for the sake of them being slightly smaller. And I'm in North Carolina, not that many places around here that I've noticed that breed.

I'm also in North Carolina, out here in Fayetteville there is no pet shops that breed. That's why I get mine from offline

Karnage Royals
1.0 Yellow Belly
0.1 Bumble Bee
1.0 Het Albino
0.1 Het Pied

[BryceE]

I'm in Fuquay, nothing here but a small old town lol.

Leaving now to go to that store and talk to him.