Newbie questions! Please help

[Craiga 01453]

Hey all! So for the last year and a half I’ve been day dreaming of owning a bp, and finally that dream is becoming a reality.
I just had a few questions before I dive head first into this:

1.) adult or baby? As a newbie to snakes, should I go for a baby or get an adult? Which would you recommend for an inexperienced owner

2.) WHERE did y’all Acquire yours? I’ve been looking at several websites (underground reptiles,xyz reptiles, backwater reptiles etc,) but would like opinions

3.) enclosure? What are you using currently(everything you’re using lol even if you feel like you’re over sharing, I’d appreciate all the info) Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I’d like something I could look into.

I swear I’ve done research, lol I just want answers from actual people and not google.
TIA, beautiful people



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Welcome!!! I honestly don't think you can go wrong with a BP as a first snake IF....you do your homework FIRST and have your enclosure set up BEFORE bringing the snake home.
Their size, relatevely simple husbandry and docile temperament make them a very popular choice for new keepers, for good reason. They are a fantastic species.

Now to answer your questions...

1) I personally would go for a juvenile that is well established and eating regularly. If you plan to feed F/T (frozen/thawed) it is definitely best to get a snake that is already well established eating F/T.
Juveniles are typically easy to handle and you can watch your pet grow while establishing trust between the two of you.

2) I've gotten all mine from local breeders, expos and reptile specialty stores (NOT chain big box pet stores). I personally like to "meet" any animals I buy and get a feel for their temperament.
That being said, I know PLENTY of people who have theirs shipped and get great animals. Just be sure to research the breeders ahead of time. Morphmarket.com is a great place to shop. Fauna classifieds is a great place to research the breeders. I personally wouldn't order from the three you've listed, but only based on hearsay and no personal experience.

3) I have used glass enclosures for years with no issues. They are a little more work, but still easy to maintain. Once they're set up it's just daily checks on equipment and maintenance.
I do, however, plan to switch to PVC at some point in the future, but primarily because they are stackable and even easier than glass. I'll be able to simplify things and keep more animals without having tanks all over the house. My snake room is at capacity now that my newest is out of quarantine and in the room.

Feel free to ask any questions you may have, best to be prepared!!!