I just bought my first snake, a ball python, last thursday. I fed it on saturday, a live mouse, and he ate it within 20 minutes (im assuming thats a reasonable amount of time). I just wanted to post here to get some facts about these creatures.. something that the pet store employees dont comprehend. So to the facts. Now this is what they told me.
1) a 20 gallon tank (which is what i have him in, hes 18 inches long atm) is fine for him for life. the tank looks almost to small for him now. so i think this is false.

2) handle him as much as possible. now this is one i hope is true because since i got him i couldnt put him down, hes so cool. but my uncle owns all kinds of snakes and he told me not to touch the snake for at least 2 days after feeding, so i havent just incase.
so if you all could clarify those 2 points id greatly appreciate it as im sure ill be posting more as time goes by. Also ill take any advice/beginner tips you have to share. Thanks alot in advance and when i get home from work ill ty and post a pic.