Not sure if any ones following this thread any more, but just an update.

The reason i started the thread was because was my first ball python and he was only 6 weeks old and climbing all the time.

He has now reduced the climbing in his cage, using his cold and warm hides nearly all the time. I dont see him during the day, pops his head out sometimes late evening, and ive seen him around in the early hours. So all very normal.

Finally, after 3 tries on a f/t hopper using gerbil litter, leaving it in the cage etc i finally gave him his first live mouse (now suggested by the breeder) which he ambushed from his hide, with a clean stike

So all in all, very happy as i have a settled bp and he has ate his first meal with meal!

Cheers for the responses on this thread