Quote Originally Posted by Anya View Post
As the OP, I just wanted to clarify something. In no way was I asking a leading question. I was GENUINELY curious. I am not an idiot. I don't have wild, crazy ideas I want to see justified by someone who claims to be an 'expert' on the subject.
I don't just care about my BP's health, I care about his happiness, too. I think one of the best ways to do this is to educate myself as much as possible. To KEEP learning. I think you're underestimating everyone's intelligence.
I believe I understand the question you were asking. The problem is that this is a forum, so when someone answers you they are answering other people as well. Its like when you are taking a class and a student asks a question. The teacher knows that their answer isn't just for the student asking but for the whole class. That being said you reinforce my point with your above statement. Your real question I believe is "how can I provide for my snakes happiness as well as its health?" and more specifically "Will providing climbing opportunities have a positive effect on either my snakes happiness or health?" That's a much more complicated question. I would say no. Don't provide things for your snake to climb as thats not your snakes goal. A green tree python seeks trees for safety, ball pythons will follow prey into trees. The motivation is key. People will talk about how climbing is good exercise. So is being handled on a regular basis. I think more floor space trumps climbing opportunities every time. Providing stable branches on the floor of your snakes enclosure gives your snake something it would seek out in the wild. Cover from predatory birds. Your snake doesn't want to be out in the open.

I don't think I am underestimating everyones intelligence, in the same way that a teacher giving a detailed answer above and beyond the question a student asks is not. Individuals are smart, people are stupid. I am trying to not let information be taken out of context by readers as well as posters. I certainly don't mean to offend anyone.