Hi Forum,

So I’ve browsed multiple forums and done many “google searches” to figure out the many details to owning a Ball Python. Well I finally lived up to all my research and went to my local reptile specialist and found me a new baby Ball Python. Yet I find myself coming up with yet more heating and housing questions.

Yes, I know there is a ton of other threads out there with all the details of my questions, but many tend to contradict each other a lot of the time too.. So, being new to owning a snake (owned iguanas when I was younger) I want to make sure that I have everything setup properly for my new baby….

Well here goes…
I have a 20 gal tank (yea I know it’s a little large for a baby) with a screened top
75 watt infrared bulb w/ holder
Zoo-Med UTH for a 20 gal tank (6x8 I believe)
Zoo-Med Rheostat (w/ 2 outlets)
24 hr timer (30 min minimum intervals)
Digital thermometer/ hygrometer w/ probe under warm hide
Floating thermometer on cool side floor
Analogue hygrometer
Large wood branch going across entire tank
Cardboard box hide on cool side
Half-log hide on warm side (1/3 of the UTH is under this)
Water bowl
And I am using aspen shavings

Now the questions:
1. The temp is about 80-85 on the cool side, and I try to keep it about 90 on the warm side. Are these temps correct?

2. What would be the best way as far as setting up a minimal hassle environment (i.e. not having to adjust all the time)?

3. Can Ball Pythons see infrared light or not? Some say yes others no. When I turn on his IR light when it is dark he will jump.. Which leads me to think he can see it so should his IR light be turned off for sure at night?

4. Also he is in a spare bedroom, which is somewhat an office with 2 computers (adding to temps in the room), where light does come thru the window, so is it necessary to “PROVIDE” a day/night cycle for him? Or is the window enough?

5. He is staying in his cool hide only. At first I only had the half log and he stayed there. Once I added the cool hide (cardboard), he has remained there. I know he may just not be adjusted yet, so just wondering if I’m over worrying.

He has eaten one meal already so I know that is a good thing. He has eaten both live and F/T before, so I am hoping he maintains his appetite!

I am aware that this information may be available if I were searching, but reading alone would not be enough assurance since it is very contradictory. Much thanks in advance in any help and suggestions. Just want to make sure that everything is where it should so he has a long healthy life. 

Thanks!

Bishop