I was on Yahoo!Answers and somebody was asking about how to extend their BP's life and this is what someone answered:

"You really should have known this stuff earlier. Four years into owning a pet isn't a good time to start learning about it. I have had a ball python for 2 months and I know almost everything about it.

Food: As an adult, a mouse or rat big enough to make a small bump in it's stomach every two-three weeks.

Humidity: Contrary to common thought, ball pythons should be fine with normal, every day humidity, however when shedding, the python should be misted 2-3 times a day with a water bottle to ensure a nice clean shed.

Cage Cleaning: Pick up any feces the moment you see it in it's cage, and change out the substrate once a month or every two months if kept in good condition.

Temperature: 80-85F Is ideal for a ball python on the warm side of the cage, and 65-75F is good for the cooler side, be sure to have hide spots on both.

Housing: 50 Gallon tank as an adult MINIMUM. Plenty of hides, a water dish that it can submerge itself in, and a nice heat gradient.

Water: Change every other day and if from the tap, add water conditioner from Zoo Med or something similar."

I hope the person takes the advice to come here and read caresheets instead of following that info...