My kids (10 and 12) really want a ball python, and I think it sounds like a fine idea. So in a few weeks, I'm planning to take them to a Repticon event near where we live. While the main mission there is to learn more about ball pythons and caring for them, there is of course the possibility that we will be tempted to return home with a ball python...

So with that in mind, I feel a need to get a reasonable home together for a snake we don't yet have. I understand that it's important to get the temperature and humidity right, and that it may take some time to do that.

I already own a standard 10 gallon aquarium (20x10x12 inches) that I used to use to house fish (I'm an experienced fishkeeper). Would that be a reasonable enclosure for a young ball python? Or do I need something else?

My thought, based on what I've read here, is to get an under-tank heater with a thermostat, a screen top (with something to keep it fastened -- clips?), a heat lamp, some aspen bedding, and a thermometer. I figure that if we do wind up with a ball python at the event, we can always pick up something for it to hide in and an appropriate water dish based on the recommendations of the breeder.

Is this a reasonable plan, or should I be doing something else? Budget is whatever it needs to be to create a good environment for the snake.

Thanks so much for your advice!