Transporting Ball Python

[LBWilson]

I'll be going on a month long trip this Sunday, and my friend Zach (who is atleast as knowledgeable about herping as I am) will be taking care of Elizabeth for me. It's not a long drive(5-10 minutes), but I was wondering if you had some tips on what I should do to transport her over there safely and without too much stress. Most appreciative!

[frankykeno]

Are you also taking her normal enclosure with you?

[JLC]

I'm assuming you're taking the whole enclosure over to your friend's house. This is what I would do if I were you:


Put the snake in a bag (inside-out pillowcase will work) and tie it securely. Then place that bag in a small box. If it's a plastic box, make sure it has holes for ventilation. Cardboard will be fine. Insulate the bag in the box well enough that it won't slide around. Make sure the box is tightly closed.

If it'll fit, you can put the box right back in the original enclosure...again, packing some paper around it to make sure it won't slide around if need be. Make sure the enclosure and/or box is on the floor of the car, or secured on the seat so there is no chance of it falling.

Set up the enclosure at your friend's....double-check the temps to make sure everything is working properly....then put the snakie back in and plan on giving it a week or so to "settle in" again as if it were being bought new. (Even if it is in its same enclosure, a new house will look and smell different.)

[Teej]

Pillow cases work great! That is how I take mine to the vet. Like mentioned, a box is one possibility. But I worry about germs in boxes. Imagine what baoxes come in contact with when transported or being stored in warehouses? I prefer using a mop bucket or pail with a handle. It is easier to carry.

If using a mop bucket, make sure it is cleaned out and completely. I bleach my bucket out, rinse it good, then towel dry it and leave it out in the sun to air dry. Then I line the bucket with a large bath or beach towel for warmth and support. Then just lay the pillow case with your snake in it, in the bucket.

fyi, Teej