I'll definitely keep in mind that I can buy online, though personally I think I'd rather buy in person as long as I feel the snake is in good condition. I don't know, guess partly because it's my first snake but nothing beats picking out your new pet and taking it home that day.

When I build a tank in the fall it'll probably be roughly the same dimensions as a 20 gallon so the snake will grow into it, but filled with plenty of cover and hides so it can feel comfortable. It seems like the snake will not be stressed in a big tank as long as there are plenty of places to hide throughout the tank, is this a valid assumption? I figure in the wild they aren't in a tank at all, but surrounded by places to hide so they feel safe.

Until I get to build the tank, what would be a good size tub for a young ball python? I couldn't tell you the exact length or age of the snakes the pet store had, but they were fairly young and definitely under a year old still. I'd like to be able to keep the snake in a tub during my internship until I get back and can build a proper tank.

Thanks!