I had done a lot of reading concerning size, disposition, etc. The actual looks were not important. I didn't want a big snake and the ball seemed to match my desires perfectly. I had also planned to purchase a custom built cage at the same time. After conversing with the cage builder, I decided to have one built to my specs. He has had a little problems with his vehicle, which has delayed the cage. I agree that i shouldn't have bought the snake without a cage ready for it, but we don't see snakes like that normally around here.