More BP questions!

[Kymberli]

That was fast :lol:, and thanks a lot Kymberli

ok, some replies:

1- In my case, a tank is a better option, (unless, of course it isn't very safe (as I have read, so much confusing info out there:lol) due to space, and If the tank will last around 1 year, that would be excellent, since i'll be moving in 1 year

2- the 'cool-looking' hide is actually a crazy idea I have that will require HOURS and HOURS of drilling, sanding, burning, shaping, etc...to make it smooth and snake proof, from an actual store product (thank goodness that as an electrical engineering student I know my way around many tools). but hell, if she/he likes it, why not build another one

3- Didn't think of that at all! ADHD at work. hahaha

4- from my point of view, a female can be bred in the future (in case I decide to, but highly doubt it, although I love the idea) and most of the names I have thought are female friendly. But, a male will keep SLIGHTLY smaller, and I have heard that on many reptiles, females tend to be a little more aggressive, and males are cheaper (shame on me)

5- ok, might put some slightly rough stuff during shed period. IDK... lol

6- Thanks for the advise

7- Ok. dont want to spoil her then :lol:

The tank vs. tub issue is up to you! Tubs are cheaper, easier to clean, lightweight, MUCH easier to maintain proper temps and humidity. But many people agree tanks are aesthetically pleasing. I started off with a ten gallon tank when I took in my first rescue BP, and let me tell you.. I will never keep a BP in a tank again. Too much hassle, and after having to cover the top, the sides, etc. etc. to keep the humidity and heat in, it ended up looking hideous anyway, lol. Again, this is your choice though. Be sure whatever this "cool looking hide" is that you're modifying is safe and easy to completely clean. If you have the slightest incline to potentially breed, get a female normal. I had no intention of breeding, but after a couple months I ended up wanting nothing more than to breed my own Ball Pythons. If you decide not to breed, you'll have a beautiful female pet anyway! I love the size that females can get too, still small and manageable but not as tiny as most males. Female normals are only slightly more expensive than male normals. Some breeders I've seen sell them for $35-50. The sex of the BP does not determine the temper. Each individual snake is different. My female is a sweetheart, my male normal is the devil reincarnate, and my male Pin is a wuss.

Hope this has helped a bit.



EDIT: Tubs typically take up LESS space than tanks. BPs do not need much head space, so it's all about the floor space of their enclosure. A newly hatched BP can be housed in a 6qt tub (incredibly tiny), then up to a 15qt tub when they get too large for the 6qt, so on and so forth. Male BPs can typically be housed in 34qt tubs for their entire lives unless they're abnormally larger. Females can be kept in 41qt tubs. They really don't take up much space.