Hi guys, I've been doing some research and I decided to get a ball at the upcoming Pittsburgh Reptile Show on December 19th.

This isn't something I'm taking lightly. I've been reading articles on forums like this one, looking at people set ups and making decisions about what I will need here. I've got my tank set up with a thermostat and I'm currently doing experiments to make sure that the temps are good and consistant. I want everything to be ready so that the animal will fit right in with minimal stress.

There are still a few questions that I haven't been able to find answers to on the net.

1.) Has anyone here ever been to the Pittsburgh show? What's it like? Will there be breeders there who know what they are doing with balls? Is it really a good idea to buy at a show?

2.) How much would I pay for one? I'm not really looking for a fancy morph, a normal young ball is what I'm going for. Are there morphs that aren't much more expensive than the normal ones?

3.) It will be cold, what should I bring to make sure that the animal is comfortable for the car trip home?

4.) I know that males are smaller, are there reasons to chose a male over a female or vice versa? Are there differences in temperament or lifespan?

Thanks!