OK, Here is my two cents, you can use the info or you can throw it right back...

Where do I start....

1st - your snake needs two hides. (one on the hot sdie and one on the cool side)
2nd- please buy a real UTH (Under Tank Heater) at the Pet Store
3rd- PLEASE buy a lid that can be secured to the tank properly!
4th- You need a digital thermometer that measures heat and humidity. You can get them at Walmart or a paet store. Digital are the best and don't make so many mistakes like analog.
5- I'd put a rock inside for the snake, because when he sheds he might need something to help him get the skin off... not a sharp rock but a nice dull rock will do.
6- Let him settle in, you dont need to hold him once a day right now. And that is probably why he isn't eating right now either! Give him a week or two and try to feed him again later!
7-Warm or cold water... it doesn't really matter in my own opinion. It will warm up by itself eventually!

Temps should be -

Hot Side - 87F-93F and Cool Side - 75F-80F
Humidity should be - 30% when not in shed and 60% during shed.
You dont want it too wet inside or he will get scale rot and too dry and you will have a horrible shed.
Always double check the shed for his eye caps ( I Do) just to make sure they came off ok.

READ READ READ! Read all you can about Ball Pythons. Hang around here a lot and you will learn tons.
If you ever have any questions don't be shy or afraid to ask. No question is a stupid question...
You might also think some people might answer your questions in a mean manner but dont take it to heart. They are just mean but they really care about snakes and all animals and really in the end only want to help! (I hope)


This is what my tank shorta looks like



anyway that is just the basics, and it's just my two cents. I probably have tons of spelling errors but I;m at work and came across your post and wanted to help!
Have a good one! and good luck to you and your new friend, and remember! READ ALL YOU CAN ABOUT BALL PYTHONS!

Oh and more pictures are cool too... we like snake pictures here!

ROCK ON BROTHA!