It all depends on what you like. In my 4 legged children I like to get older ones. I have been banned from going to shelters by my husband because I always come home with an old cat or dog. They don't get adopted as easily as puppies and kittens. So I get them and give them a good life till they pass on to milk bone heaven. In snakes I prefer babies because then I know their temperament all ti ivs. I've seen some adult snakes that are jerks and will try to ake your head off as soon as look at you and some that will just chill out with you. I've owned my girl since she was a couple months old and she is a sweety. Yes there are times she will try to make a run for it but usually she will just relax with me. My boy will just ball up and not move. He's about 2 yrs old now and still won't relax a lot. I got him at about 1 1/2 yrs old.