Well I've made up my mind. I want a Ball Python. So, I need to know a few things before I actually start getting the supplies. I want everything set up before I bring the snake home. I'm moving into a townhome with some friends in the next month or so, so I have some time to get money together and everything.

I've been told I can keep a full grown ball in a 40+ quart rubbermaid tub. Is this true?

If so, how would I set this up to make it a nice habitat for a ball python?(Please include all supplies and how to set them up.)

What supplies should I have before getting the snake? I was thinking of getting a weight scale, enclosure, heating pads/lights, ect.

Once I get the snake....

How long should I wait before feeding or handling the snake?

What should I feed the snake? (I know it depends on size, so if you could, list sizes with appropriate foods. I'm not sure how small the snake will be when I get one.)

Frozen or live food? Mice or rats? (I will eventually breed my own)

What are some things to watch out for during its first few weeks at home?

What should the humidity and temperature be at all times? (I've heard 80-85 degrees at 60% humidity)

Should the enclosure be lit during the day? (If so, how many hours should the light be on?)

How long do balls live and how long can they get? (I've heard 20-40 years and anywhere from 3-5 feet in length)

Sorry for all the questions and yes I've done some research. I'm just trying to get information from as many sources as possible. Information from one person may be totally different from another, so its good to get as much info as possible.