Hey all -

Sorry if this is the wrong subforum; couldn't find a "new members area."

Been lurking for a couple weeks at this point. My BP arrived in the mail today, so I figured it was time to finally post up.
First off - great site! The forum has already been incredibly useful in terms of helping me set up my enclosure, where to buy supplies, etc.
Currently running a tub set-up, have my two hides, UTH, theromstat, Acur-rite, etc. All in all, I feel pretty well prepared to have my first snake!

Here's a quick picture I snapped after unboxing him this morning.
The little guy (still unnamed) is a male Pastel, 50% het clown, 50% het pied.


I've been reading up on caring for new BPs, handling, etc. I know I shouldn't handle him until he's eaten for me 3 times. But how long should I wait before attempting to feed him? I assume I'll try to feed live first (since that's what he's been eating) - start with a hopper, maybe? I still don't have a scale, so I'm unsure of his weight, but he hatched on June 18th, so I'm looking at 11 weeks old at this point. Recommendations on when I should first feed and/or size of prey? I received him this morning (9/5/12).

This is not only my first BP, it's my first reptile altogether. Been looking forward to this for awhile!

Thanks,
Mark