Enclosure Upgrade Question

[flynavy]

I am a first time owner as of a couple of weeks ago and new to this forum. I have learned a great deal, but have a question and I would like some opinions from those much wiser in the ways of the ball python.

I currently have a 300 gram male in the 10 gallon glass tank that he came with, and I believe it is about time to upgrade. At first I wanted to get him a 40 gallon tank and make it look awesome with greenery, natural-looking hides, etc., however, I've read here and in other places that the tub option is better for the snake, not to mention the amount of money I would save. I like the idea of a more natural looking enclosure, mostly because it looks way cooler than a rubbermaid tub, but if the tub is really THAT much better maybe I should go with the latter.

I realize it comes down to personal opinion, but I'd like to get some thoughts from those that have been in similar situations. Also, I do not plan on having multiple snakes or breeding any time in the future.

Thanks for reading, please share your opinion!

[seeya205]

For a one snake collection, tanks are fine! Tubs are really good for multiple snakes because they are easy to clean and don't take up much room! Since you only have one snake, spoil him! I would put him in a 20 gallon long tank. A 40 gallon may be too big for him!

[p3titexburial]

The only issue with a larger tank is that it might take a bit more tweaking to get the humidity and temperatures right. If you really want to stay with a tank, that's fine too, it's all up to personal preference. =)

[DaveR]

I am new to husbandry as well. I have my new pet in a 30g measuring 36"X12"X18" (L-W-H) She/he is about 1.5 years to 2 years old, about 3 feet long. It is hard difficult getting the humidity just right in the beginning, but with research and tinkering you can give them a great home. What works for me might not work for you, so there is some trail and error tests in your future. I do suggest spray painting the back and sides of the aquarium to give your snake a little bit more privacy, of course depending on where you have your snake (high traffic area or low traffic area) Be sure you are prepared to take the time to clean your set up properly, the more decorations and such the more time involved. Either way you go, use trail and error until you have found your way of obtaining the numbers for a perfect home. Good luck with your new set up! I cant wait to see what you design! Cheers!

[ladywhipple02]

You could try purchasing a more "snake-friendly" cage. Maybe something like this from Reptile Basics: http://www.reptilebasics.com/2x4-cage-12-high.html

They're a bit expensive, but you can still deck them out with a naturalistic setting, you still have decent visibility, and it's very easy to keep the temps and humidity where you want them for the snake's health. It's durable, easy to clean, and will last.

The best of both worlds

[flynavy]

For a one snake collection, tanks are fine! Tubs are really good for multiple snakes because they are easy to clean and don't take up much room! Since you only have one snake, spoil him! I would put him in a 20 gallon long tank. A 40 gallon may be too big for him!

Thanks for the response. So you think a 20 gallon long will last him his whole life? I'm looking to only buy one more enclosure for him, one that will last to maturity.

You could try purchasing a more "snake-friendly" cage. Maybe something like this from Reptile Basics: http://www.reptilebasics.com/2x4-cage-12-high.html

That cage is a bit out of my price range. I have heard good things about vision cages (http://www.visionproducts.us/htm7/cages.html) and those look a bit more in my price range. What are some other cages you guys recommend?

Thanks for the responses!

[Kaorte]

If you have the money to maintain and fully "furnish" an appropriately sized tank then go for it! I really like display cages when they are put together nicely, but they really aren't practical for my life style.

A 20g long will be just fine for a male ball python for its entire life. They stay a bit smaller than females so they do fine in the 20g.

Just make sure you get two identical tight fitting hides, some fake plants for "clutter cover" and a UTH on a reliable reptile thermostat. You might have to do some cage modification to get the humidity right but it shouldn't be too hard.

If you go with vision, I think Model #221 would be a good one for a ball python.

Animal Plastics also has some cool cages although a bit more expensive than the vision cages.

[snakelady]

You could try purchasing a more "snake-friendly" cage. Maybe something like this from Reptile Basics: http://www.reptilebasics.com/2x4-cage-12-high.html

They're a bit expensive, but you can still deck them out with a naturalistic setting, you still have decent visibility, and it's very easy to keep the temps and humidity where you want them for the snake's health. It's durable, easy to clean, and will last.

The best of both worlds

Took the words right outta my mouth. Visions are good also. There are several brands that you can research online. If you don't want to spend that much a tank will work. You will just have to work a bit more to keep the temps and humidity right.

[flynavy]

Thanks for the responses! I have accepted the fact that I'm going to need to spend some solid cash to get a good enclosure for the little guy, but I have yet to find one that really sticks out as being the best enclosure for him. The search continues!

[starmom]

In my opinion, and it's only my opinion based on experience, the Reptile Basics cages are the very best bang for the buck and you couldn't buy from a nicer guy.

Cages look good, hold heat and humidity very well, and clean up very easily. You also have your choice of heating. I started with floor heating and then upgraded to RHP's. Works like a charm!