What's the next step!?

[TDent1]

Well, the herp bug is biting and the wife is on board for another snake (as well as a beardie for her!) My pastel is the only reptile I've ever owned but I'm always doing more research and I think he's settled in nicely. His temps are good, his humidity is fine (although I find my self misting a few times a day, I may get another tub and drill a few less holes in it so it doesn't fluctuate so much). He sheds well, he NEVER misses a meal (or hesitates to take one!) and he's growing every day. Basically, I think I'm ready for a more challenging snake. I'd like something a bit larger that is still comfortable in a tub and that travels well, I'm in the military so I'll swap bases a few times in the next 15 years or so. What snakes would you guys suggest for someone in my position?

There's a good chance that I'll get myself another ball instead of going to another snake but I would like to see my options. Thanks guys!

[Virus]

I'm still learning a great deal about balls (Why I'm here I suppose). I too, am in the military, and finishing up a tour. The ball is going to be a gift to myself once I get home.

I've heard some good things about hognoses while browsing the forum. I'm not too familiar with them, but it might be something interesting to look into.

Also, the beardie will be great times. I have four of them back home, and would never get rid of any of them. If you two ever have questions about beardies, you can send me a message, and I'll try to help.

[zina10]

If you want something "similar" to a BP, as in a python, that can comfortably live in a tub, but is just a bit "more", look into Angolan Pythons. They are getting easier to find all the time and prices have come down dramatically. Still somewhat rare, get bigger then BP's, are more outgoing and usually don't have that feeding drama that Balls may go through.

You could also look into Boas, Hog Island Boas don't get huge and are a fun snake to have around. Red Tail Boas are also great, but can get quite bigger, esp. females.

If you want to go to Colubrids, some Rat and Bull snakes can get pretty big and are fun to have around.

Russian Ratsnakes are especially cool imho. They can be kept in a display cage, they like to watch what you're doing. They are also game for anything, real "buddies".
They start out rather plain looking, but look gorgeous as adults. They get to a pretty nice size and aren't as "squirrely" as some colubrids. Also, no heat needed unless your house is really cold. As a matter of fact, they cannot be kept to hot, or they get uncomfortable.

Thats just a couple of ideas

[TDent1]

The Russian Rat Snake did appeal to me, as well as the hognose, but I love the head and body of pythons. Looks like I have some research to do!