Ball Python Uses Small Hide. Is She Stupid?

[Gio]

I'm a proponent of offering a range of hides (sizes; materials; locations; moisture levels) and letting the snake choose which they prefer. The more options I give, the closer the snake will get to satisfying their preference. Also, I'll learn something about the snake based on what it prefers (which is how scientific research leads to knowledge about animal preferences, too). It may be interesting to swap the positions of those two hides to see if the snake changes its preferred spot; it may be that they're taking that hide for its position or temperature.

It isn't unusual for a snake to prefer a very tight hide, and I wouldn't take away anything unless it's causing or likely to cause harm.

I find this an intelligent and well thought out response.

No reptile is stupid they don't have many ways to communicate with us. They survive because of basic instincts and we are the ones that have to learn how to accommodate them.

Reptiles will gravitate to areas that support their basic needs.

If you provide several climate and hide options and the animal stays in one area only, that is a sign that something is working and other things may not be working.

I see my animals in a variety of areas within their cages. Typically after a meal they seek the warmer areas. That area could be a perch right under the RHP or on the floor under the RHP.

Studying one animal in a collection takes months and maybe even a year or two.

I notice movements and preferences within the cage based on various factors.

A shed may cause certain behavior. A meal changes things.

Security is another factor and it is something that could cause an animal to forego a heated area to digest in favor of not getting eaten (theoretically) by choosing a cooler secure area.

I have always provided the same type of hide on both sides of the cage until I can determine the patterns of the animals I keep.

Reading the animal is very important and knowing the cues they are giving us is critical.

I recommend studying and learning what their wild habits are and making decisions based on science, and what long time successful keepers have done.