new here, wanted to say hello. also a few questions...

[BiGBaLLiN]

hello i am new here and new to bps so i have some questions.
i just got 2 new bps and i was wondering if i can keep them together. i bought a 40 breeder for one of my bps which i got a week ago and today i bought a second bp. if i have the appropriate amount of hides will they be ok? otherwise i am planning on getting another rubbermaid cage if it will not work out. both are eating great, but i am feeding them live really small mice, a little bigger than fuzzies and they have no problem eating them. also, how does the humidity and thermometer work and where do i have to place them in the cage? i have one of those cheap sticker thermometers and i want to get a better one. if possible, can you post a pic of it? i really need help so any input and advice is welcomed.
thank you!

[rex322]

welcome to the site!

no, u cant house them together for numerious reasons. if one gets sick, tye other could, culd stress eachother out, you dont know whos poop is whos.

if you go to wlamart or another retail store you can pick up a digital indoor/outdoor thermometer/hygrometer for $20. just put the probe under your wamr hide, and the unit on your cold side and you have everything set up!

[tigerlily]

Welcome to the site!

I agree, it's best for everyone if you house seperately. The Accurite thermometer/hygrometer from Walmart is great and pretty cheap. It's in the outdoor section with the outdoor thermometers.

About the slightly bigger than fuzzy mice...you might want to try for an adult mouse if you have been successful at feeding. A hatchling bp can take an adult mouse.

The best advice is to read the caresheet....
http://www.ball-pythons.net/modules....warticle&id=52

One of the most important things for a bp is it's environment. It is VERY important to establish the correct temperatures and humidity. 90-94 on the warm side and 80-84 on the cool side. Give them a place in each end to hide, and give the guys a week without handling to let them settle in, minimizing stress.

I hope I didn't overload you. Feel free to ask more questions!

[BiGBaLLiN]

thanks tiger and rex for the info. i used to keep a korean rat snake and he didnt need that much attention or so i was told. but with the bps, i want to be perfect in their care so i will definitley get the accurite. i went out and got a rubbermaid tub so the bp i got today is going in that. i soldered about 15 holes on the sides each and about 10 on the top. is that good enough or do i need more? and is there any good advice on how to hold the top down on the rubbermaid? right now i have slabs of roofing tile on it to hold it down. and on my tanks, how do i control the temps? if it gets too hot or cold, i want to know how to modify it. sorry for all these questions. never thought that there was so much to do. hehe. thanks again for the info. oh one more thing, i have aspen in the rubbermaid and shredded coconut shavings in the 40 br. are these ok?

[tigerlily]

About the number of holes...Get everything set up and measure your humidity. If it's too high add more, if it's too low cover a few up. No big deal.

I believe a lot of people use bungee cord to secure their rubbermaids. I don't have any personal experience with those but that's what I've read. One encircling each end of the tub.

Temperature control is a little harder. I would really suggest a thermostat. This is a good place to get one at a good price .... http://www.mgreptiles.com/index.html ... It's where I got mine. If that's above your means right now then try a dimmer, although you'll have to ask around for more info on that one. A thermostat will keep you from burning your snake! I automatically will shut off and turn back on to adjust the temp. It is a great relief having it. Under the tank heating is great for bps.

As for the aspen and coconut shavings...I believe both are fine! Just no pine or cedar!! BIG NO NOs!

Hope this helps!

[Shelby]

As for securing the lid, I use duct tape for mine.. just be sure to use enough! Bungee cords are good too.