I recently bought my first Ball Python. It has been in its cage for about 3 1/2 weeks. I am feeding it live mice since it didn't eat the frozen ones. It eats just fine. Attacks within seconds of seeing the mouse. I have a lamp keeping one side of the cage warm and the other side is cool with the water bowl. I spray water from a spray bottle into the cage twice a day for humidity. The snake stays in its hide for the majority/all of the day and often comes out at night/early morning. I just have a couple questions since I'm new at this….

- The main big question I have is that its almost Winter and its getting cold in my room at night. Should I invest in one of those under-cage heating pads? or keep the heat lamp on longer? or just leave it? I have a basking rock that stays warm from the lamp for a couple hours.

- Is it possible to put TOO MUCH foliage in the cage? I read they love to hide so i put 2 driftwood sticks and some leaves in the cage but it is very crowded. Today when he caught his mouse he accidentally wrapped up around a stick as well. So the mouse was between him and the stick. Should i take some out?

- Anyone know good places that sell 40 gallon tanks for low prices? Glass tanks with screen lids are fine but I'd really like one with sliding doors on the side. In the end the major thing i want is a cage with a lock. (So i don't have to use books lol)

The people on this site have helped me so much already. Im glad I found it. Thanks a bunch. please answer if you can