Quote Originally Posted by Elleken View Post
So I finally got around to getting my first bp after years of wanting one. I did a lot of research on them already and just wanted to check in with you guys. I was referred here from a different site. I have it in a 30 gallon tank with aspen shavings for substrate. I have an under the tank heater on one side that I seriously need to get a thermostat for as it only is cranking it just above 80 degrees. Now this is the rough part. I would like to get it to eat frozen and not live now. If it gets too complicated and seems like it will only eat live then I will move over to that, but after having pet rats/mice years ago I will admit to having a soft spot for them. Any advice on that would be much appreciated. Other than that does my cage sound alright? I have a hide on the coolside at the moment and will be getting another very soon. As is he doesn't care too much about the hide and would rather chill in the heated side of the cage.
How old is your BP? If your BP is a baby or juvenile the cage is just right. Adults will need a 40-55 gallon, 40 is the minimum size for an adult. The Aspen is just fine, I actually recommend that substrate for this species because it's safe to use and easy to spot clean.

Now for your UTH, you will need a thermostat right away because it is too cold in your enclosure if 80F is what the temp is on the warm side of the enclosure. Without proper heating, your BP could get RI (respiratory infection) from not having the correct body temperatures since snakes are cold-blooded. If they are too cold that lowers their immune system allowing the snake to become ill.

I had one of my King snakes switch from live to f/t and I had no problem with it. Feed the snake a mouse/rat about the same size as the middle part of the snake's body. When you thaw out the mice, put the mice in a container of really hot water and it should thaw within 5-10 minutes. Dry off the mouse, and then try wiggling it in front of your snake with tongs. Tongs are always best to use when feeding a snake so you do not have to use your hands which can also cause a bite since your hand is warmer than the food item.

One last thing, your hide should be on the warm side for now. BPs don't spend too much time on the cool end of their enclosure, so keep the hide on the warm side for now so the snake can get somewhat warm. When you purchase the other hide, make sure it looks exactly like the other hide you are using. You didn't mention a water dish, but I'm assuming you have one because it's very important and hard not to forget to have in your enclosure. Make sure you clean out the water dish daily ot every other day so the snake has fresh drinking water.