Thinking about getting a ball python. Warnings? Tips?

[Blubb]

1.What size enclosure? I was told by a local pet shop owner that a 40gal breeder tank" was right. Mine is 36' long, 18' deep,and 12' high with a sliding mesh top. I have seen and read about people using long, 20gal fish tanks also.

Really depends on if the snake is a baby or adult. Bigger is not always better when it comes to tanks for ball pythons.

2.What kind of heat and lighting? I watched a video on youtube that said a fish tank was ONLY for fish and just let too much heat out and all we were doing using a tank like that was broiling our snake. Some people say to "black out" the tank. Does this mean to make it completely dark and black inside? I would really like to see my snake if thats possible...

An UTH works fine. Not sure about the lightning though, other than it is not necessary for their health. If you get a fish tank (which I don't recommend because they do let out heat) you should black out all sides except the front.

3.Is there any gender specific attitude, handling, or other traits?

Hm, not really. Females get larger.

Anything else you know that would help a beginner would be great!

If you have more questions, ask people on this forum. That's my best advice I have. And of course, enjoy and have fun with your ball python