I got a Ball Python last night because its been a dream pet of mine since i was around 8 years old, and its more than i ever thought it would be. he/she has beautiful coloration, probably just the normal coloration, just a little lighter. but i have a few questions. currently i have him/her set up in a 10 gallon aquarium with a wire mesh lid, i broke my day bulb last night, (lamp fell while moving the cage. DOH!), but i have the night bulb on right now, will this be ok until i can get my hands on a day bulb?

the substrate i have is called aspen snake bedding. i assume that is ok because the lady in the pet store insisted on it. (thank God my room mates were with me, they helped me cover the cost of getting it).

its about a foot and a half or so long.

i have a single piece of wood in there for like a basking spot.

i really just need some info and ideas on how to better take care of this little guy/girl. (is there any way to tell the sex besides violating their orifaces?)

any and all help is appreciated.

Thanks,
C4t4StRoPhIc