Is it still to soon to say I wanna breed Ball Pythons?

[artgecko]

I'd echo what others have said. But I'd also like to add, that should you join the military, I believe they are not allowed "pets" while on post and I seem to remember someone in the military (after training) that couldn't own his snakes on base...people could have a dog when housed on base (not in the barracks) but not reptiles. Moving frequently with the military would also make maintaining even a single pet BP possibly hard too, so it is something to seriously consider if you know you want to own animals and have them as a large part in your life.

I've read accounts of many people who joined, had to get rid of their animals, then after leaving service, were finally able to keep them again and were "getting back into" the hobby.

it may also be good to know that most people don't make a living off of selling snakes. Most hobbyist breeders do this on the side, in addition to a full-time job. If you are smart in your spending and breeding plans, you might be able to have the hobby pay for itself, maybe even make a small amount of money after covering costs. There are very few people that have "made it" as professional breeders... You look at the big names in the hobby that have facilities, staff, etc. but even they have to work really hard and at times, get very lucky, to make it work.


I'd just focus on nailing down what career path you're on, checking to make sure that your chosen profession will lead to enough income for a house, and all the expenses associated with living and with purchasing / caring for the animals you intend to breed. Looking at costs for racks, incubators, food, etc. and have a financial plan is a good first step, as is having a budget for yourself that will allow you to save money to eventually put into buying a house and purchasing stuff for your hobby.

While you're waiting..going to school or working and saving, use that time to research as much as possible. Look into the morphs that are out there and what prices they are going for. Choose which morphs really appeal to you and make up a breeding plan to eventually follow. Prices and popularity change quickly in this hobby, so be prepared to alter your plans as needed.

I have a full time job, own a house, and have been keeping for about 6 years now and I'm just starting my first breeding project... and I won't be breeding for another 2+ years while my breeders mature and I buy the needed housing and incubator. My personal end goal is that breeding will help cover the expenses of my other animals and hobby. It will also be fun, which is why I will be doing it, so any $$ I make will be a bonus in the end. I am starting small, one trio of animals, and will go from there based on how I like the process.