Hi all. I am new here. I currently do not have a any reptiles but plan to get a ball python in the next month or so. I went to my first reptile show this weekend in Pomona, CA, but I refrained from purchasing anything as I first want to get my cage set up and start checking the temperature and humidity readings I get. I believe I am going to start with a simple tub setup while I determine the ideal cage setup for me. I am a mechanical engineer who specializes in thermal management testing so I am confident in my abilities to create a system that can keep the keep the numbers I am looking for in check and hey I always like a little construction project.

So here is where your opinions and advice come in handy for me. This will be my first ball python and my first snake in general. I have found many books on the subjects and was planning on picking up a copy of "The Complete Ball Python" by Kevin McCurley. Are there any other books I should look out for?

I am looking to keep a single snake as a pet so I am not looking to get a bunch and start breeding. I am looking for a snake that is a maximum of $200. Honestly I was thinking about just getting a normal to save the money but morphs are tempting (hey who doesn't love eye candy), so I was looking for any suggestions for morphs I might look at. I really love the lighter colored morphs like bumble bees and stripes are really pretty as well, but they are usually out of my price range. Any suggestions or incite is appreciated.

Also I live in downtown LA. If anyone is local, do they have an suggestions on a place to obtain live feeders in case I need to start by feeding live. f/t I should have no problem with as I plan to buy those online. Thanks in advance for the help.

PS - Is anyone here planning to go to the Anaheim NARBC in September?