Hi there,

I recently acquired a ball python from a less-than-stellar owner who didn't want it anymore. The setup she was in had a rock dish that was basically a plate the snake would come out and soak in, but it was very small, very shallow, and perpetually drying up.

I've moved her into a new tank with hides, the right temps and humidity, etc. but she refuses to touch the water bowl I've provided. It's about 8" in diameter, porcelain, and about 3/4 full of lukewarm water which I changed on a daily basis. I've had her for about a month now and aside from lying against the bowl, she won't touch it or soak in it (despite an awful shed she just went through).

Is there any way to encourage her to use it? I'm planning on avoiding the "throw her into the pool to teach her what it is" approach used on me when learning to swim. I keep the humidity up with misting and tank covers but I have a feeling soaking would help with the sheds.

Any thoughts or advice is appreciated. Thanks in advance.