i'm ignorant

[yz9890]

my son has been researching snakes for a while in an attempt to convince my wife to let him get a one. specifically a Ball Python. his birthday is in June and my wife has decided to let him get one (she wants to surprise him). he's a very responsible 11yr old. he tells me they can live to be over 30yrs old so i inderstand that i'll be taking care of this animal while he's away at college.

could someone please steer me to the most current newbie thread about what sex to get, what equipement to get etc? also where to get just a standard BP near Louisvile KY. (i realize i just missed a big KY reptile expo here in Louisville by a few days)

thanks for any help and guidance you may have.

[Xotik]

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...ius)-Caresheet

Read that- Its the caresheet - it will tell you what you need to know.

I personally would recommend getting a female. On where to get one in KY, that I can't tell you.

As for housing - follow what the caresheet instructs - the caresheet knows all.

[AK907]

I recommend you read this thread first and foremost. There are lots of other threads/links regarding basic husbandry in there I believe.

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...s%29-Caresheet

As for locating a normal ball python, most pet shops carry them, but you will pay dearly for them and most of the time they are wild caught and/or of relatively low quality. There are lots of great breeders in KY/OH area that will be overrun with babies in June, myself included. Many of them can be found right here on these forums. If you can't make it to a show (there are several KY shows between now and your son's birthday) I would consider looking into ordering one online. Although the snake will be cheaper, you will have to pay shipping so you will end up paying about the same as a pet store, but you will likely get a higher quality animal.

Link to some KY shows:
http://www.kentuckyreptileexpo.com/calendar.html

[Exotic Ectotherms]

First of all, I commend you on doing research before getting you new BP. It may seem like no big deal to you, but you would be AMAZED how many people buy pets with no knowledge of proper husbandry requirements....and then wonder why they aren't eating or they "mysteriously" die. Second, you guys are awesome parents for allowing your son to get into the hobby. When I was a kid my mom was just as awesome and allowed me to have pet snakes on the condition that I researched the hell out of them first so they would be properly taken care of. I can't thank her enough for instilling those values in me.

To answer your question, Mr. AK907 already said it best. It is highly recommended to buy from a breeder as opposed to most pet stores. Most pet stores do not take care of BP's as they should and they have been known to sell sick or non-feeding animals. Breeders will guarantee and healthy and feeding ball python.

[RetiredJedi]

Also, this has some great visuals to help you see what is in the caresheet as far as housing goes.:

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...-Basics...*DUW

[yz9890]

great info people. thanks for the links and info.

I got in touch with a local breeder as well and he said getting one at the end of May shouldn't be a problem. Decent price as well it seemed.

nice forum.

[RetiredJedi]

great info people. thanks for the links and info.

I got in touch with a local breeder as well and he said getting one at the end of May shouldn't be a problem. Decent price as well it seemed.

nice forum.

I would suggest that if it's at all possible (keeping it a surprise), to have the enclosure setup and working right before getting the BP. That way you can work out the kinks getting the humidity, ambients, and hotspot temps right. Then all you do is put the BP in and it should be good to go.

[Wes]

I would suggest that if it's at all possible (keeping it a surprise), to have the enclosure setup and working right before getting the BP. That way you can work out the kinks getting the humidity, ambients, and hotspot temps right. Then all you do is put the BP in and it should be good to go.

+1

I would even go as far as getting the BP a week or two early so it can get acclimated to its enclosure before your sons birthday. That way he will be able to hold the snake on his birthday without stressing it out to much.

[Slim]

Welcome to BP.net!

Sounds like the crew here is pointing you in the right direction for doing your research and finding the information you need.

I highly commend you for finding a breeder in your area. You're son will end up with a much healthier animal and your wallet won't be nearly as light when it's all said and done.

One thing you asked about that has only been lightly addressed is the issue of what sex to get...Males tend to stay smaller and lighter than females, but since BPs are not a large species, either are easily kept and handled. Females usually cost a little more than males, but more so with morphs than Normals. Some say adult females are more prone to going on feeding strikes, but this varies quite a bit with each animal.

Of course, if your son ever plans on breeding, it's prudent to get a female first since they take longer to reach breeding size than a males. If breeding isn't in his future, there are really no down sides to purchasing a male.

Good luck! I look forward to seeing you around the Forum.

[DooLittle]

I think most has been said. Read the care sheet. Spend some time browsing these forums to pick up other information. Feel free to ask any questions, this is a great place. You will get good answers fast. I would steer clear of pet stores for a snake. I would get cage/tub set up ahead of time. Get a good thermostat. Sex doesn't really matter as far is disposition, just the individual snake. Which btw, will usually be better fromba breeder than the pet store. Imo tubs are way easier, as far as cleaning and holding humidity and temps without constantly messing with them. Also take up less room. Bps are like potatoes chips, you can't have just one. Welcome!
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