if you decide to drill your holes, be careful not to crack the plastic. If you apply too much pressure when drilling, it may crack. Let the drill do the work and be patient on each hole, it will save you a few trips to Target

As far as the enclosure size, I think both parties are correct in a way. If you want to use a large enclosure, clutter it with hides, fake plants, rocks, etc.....make it busy.

When I handle my snakes and place them on the carpet, the first thing they do is head for a covered area....they rarely sit out in the open. This is proof enough to me that they don't feel secure in the open

hth and good luck