Preparing for my First Snake

[Homebody]

I just want to second a couple of dakski's suggestions.

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.

The plastic bin you describe sounds o.k. to start, but you should start saving for an upgrade. I kept my bp in a sweater box with a UTH for the first year I had him, but then he started injuring himself pushing to get out. So, I built him a 3x2x2 plywood enclosure. I don't know if he hated the lack of security, the size or the heat and temp fluctuations, but once I upgraded, he stopped injuring himself.

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.

Adults are less fragile than babies, and so, more forgiving of beginner mistakes. So, I highly recommend getting an adult for your first snake.