Housing 2???

[Fireproof]

I find it amazing how we humanize our snakes by thinking they are unhappy etc...I have heard both ways about housing multiple snakes in the same enclosure. And while I am not sure how ball pythons do it in Africa, but come to think of it most snakes here in the USA do den together, with sometimes several hundred snakes in a single den. I guess I need to do some research for myself

It seems like it might not be a problem, until one of them eats the other one. Even though they aren't supposed to eat other snakes. Later when I get to my computer I'll post pics of a red tail boa that ate a ball python. And they were about the same size - so the owner figured it wouldn't be a problem. Both of them died (after the boa regurgitated the ball).

[PitOnTheProwl]

I find it amazing how we humanize our snakes by thinking they are unhappy etc...I have heard both ways about housing multiple snakes in the same enclosure. And while I am not sure how ball pythons do it in Africa, but come to think of it most snakes here in the USA do den together, with sometimes several hundred snakes in a single den. I guess I need to do some research for myself

There is more involve than just the couple reasons you are thinking of. Main reason is for the health of your snake/s.

I can see where racks would be useful for breeders, but I like to see my snakes, not shove them in an opaque tub!!

Racks are actually easier to control husbandry.

[Darkbird]

I have found with most of my BPs, that even when given the option to do more, they tend to curl up in thier hides and just stay there. There are of course exceptions, even in my own collection, but it just seems to be their normal behavior. Nothing wrong with a nice display setup, but you are doing it for your enjoyment, not the snakes.

[AlexisFitzy]

I can see where racks would be useful for breeders, but I like to see my snakes, not shove them in an opaque tub!!

I have my normal Levi in a Proline cage and I only see him on feeding day, when I'm cleaning his cage, or if I just take him out to hang out with me. Give a bp a terrarium and it's no guarantee you'll be seeing them do anything but slithering from the cool side to the warm side lol.

[Fireproof]

Tubs in or outside of racks can work just fine with the proper setup. Tends to be easier to control heat (under tub flex watt strips, in the case of a rack) and humidity (no screen tops or light to dry it out and plastic holds humidity well). A couple hides and water and you are basically good to go.

But that doesn't mean that they can't also be kept well in a nice, more "realistic looking" tank setup. Covering the screen top with plexiglass usually makes it easier to control humidity. The more natural look can be fun to look at and I've had some balls and boas that just hide all the time, but I've also had balls and boas that roam a lot and actually hang out on top of big branches or on top of hides where you can clearly see them.

Do what is practical for you, will give you much enjoyment, but keeps your snake's health and well being as the top priority.


But whatever you do - avoid the temptation to put two snakes together. I know there are many cases where people have done this without a problem. But it only takes one time to make you thoroughly regret it. Like this guy who thought he'd keep his boa and ball together just for a short time...

[slithering_BP]

That's gotta suck

[Kata]

Thanks to everyone who responded, i will most definatly not be putting them together. I am gonna consider the rack system though.
As for those pictures, that is horrible

[Kata]

I find it amazing how we humanize our snakes by thinking they are unhappy etc...I have heard both ways about housing multiple snakes in the same enclosure. And while I am not sure how ball pythons do it in Africa, but come to think of it most snakes here in the USA do den together, with sometimes several hundred snakes in a single den. I guess I need to do some research for myself

Maybe i am wrong, but i see all creatures having feelings even if we do not understand them so yes i believe that our bp's can also be happy or unhappy. Humans are not the only creatures with emotions in my opinion, not by a long shot.

[Viol8r]

Out of the 19 bp's we have there is 1 OG male that has probably never used his hide. He would probably love being a display item. lol They all live in a rack, in tubs that are completely see through.

[aLittleLessButter]

I like to see my snakes too so I used those clear tubs and built my rack with open sides. I can easily see my snakes' full enclosures and they still feel snug . Also I have 5 snakes and the rack only takes up a small corner of my dining room.