Preparing for my First Snake

[dakski]

Kryptic,

Congrats on your decision to get a BP. Finding one locally makes sense for a first snake so you can meet them first. Additionally, kudos to you for doing research first and taking your time to make sure you are doing your best for both you and your BP.

I agree with much of what's been said regarding BP's and fasting, etc. However, we will be here to help and as long as you've researched and understand some of the potential issues, and that they can happen, you won't be caught by surprise.

I wanted to add one thing that I do not think has been said yet. Get a proper enclosure for your BP. If you are worried about temps and humidity and consistency, plan on a PVC cage with good heating element(s) and thermostat(s). In my experience, and I keep 7 snakes and 4 species, and two lizards and 2 species, those three things (proper tank - PVC for a BP IMO, good and correct amount/wattage, etc. heating elements, and a good thermostat) make a world of difference. I've been there with trying to care for a BP with a glass tank and skimping on the thermostat etc. It's not worth it for you or the snake.

A PVC tank with proper heating elements and thermostat will keep temps consistent and safe and humidity should be much easier to control. The one caveat to that is if it's too hot. Remember, reptiles prefer a temp gradient and more heat doesn't equal better. 88F for a hot spot is perfect, but not ideal for a whole tank temp, certainly for any length of time. PVC tanks are cheaper to heat because they are better insulated, but no tank will cool itself. I would ensure you can keep temps below 80-82F in the room the snake will be in for a proper gradient. Having said that, I've heard of people keeping their snake room a constant temp, but not as much with BP's.

I have all PVC tanks (two stacks), although my corn snakes (2) probably don't care that much. My BP, Carpet Python, and Boas (3), really appreciate the space (size/strength/weight/cost are all advantages of PVC), temp, and humidity control.

You WILL spend quite a bit to get a proper setup. However, you should have a healthy snake for years to come (husbandry is a major factor in health) and should not have to constantly adjust things. I find when there are big temperature swings or humidity swings in my finished basement where I keep my tanks, which happens about 2-3X a year, I have to make small adjustments. Otherwise, I am spending time cleaning, checking temps briefly, feeding, and hanging with my reptiles, not worrying and adjusting things.

People can give you advice on PVC tanks and what to get. Many people here like Animal Plastics (AP), and I use Boaphile Plastics tanks. That's for another thread.

Finally, I suggest getting a yearling, or at least a fairly established animal as your first BP. This way you know a little better what you are getting, health, and whether or not they are established on Frozen/Thawed (F/T) prey items if that's the route you want to go. As new owner, the last is important. Some BP's can be picky, and most switch to F/T, but if that's what you want to feed, easier to get one that's already happy with that then try to switch one, especially a young one that needs food.

Any other questions don't be afraid to ask and again, we are here to help. Additionally, any points of clarification, just ask.