That is good that he is looking better. Don't know how the keeper kept him before you, but I have noticed that good care can make a WORLD of difference in the looks of a snake, sure it works with other animals as well. Sounds like you are taking good care of him. As far as keeping compared to ball pythons, pretty much the exact same. I keep and breed many bps and carpets in the same room, the only difference really is that I usually give carpets more verticle space. Other than that, they are pretty identicle. Carpets seem to have less problems with stuck sheds, and of course are MUCH better feeders, and will perch and be more visiable and active than balls are. Anyway, there are my