Need advice on picking the right snake for a 12 year old, first time snake owner

[norcal_707]

I am actually asking this question to try and help out a good friend of mine. She has a son who is turning 12 on his next birthday, and wants to get him a snake. They have been thinking about it for quite a long time but wanted to wait until they felt he was old enough and responsible enough to take on a pet such as a snake. Even though I myself am lucky to have a rainbow boa who is super sweet and has a great temperament, she is the first snake I have had so I am pretty clueless on what to recommend. I have started researching different sites and reading tons of information, but it can be a little overwhelming with so many different types. So I thought it would be a great idea to turn to everyone here in the snake community for help, I would love to hear any suggestions you may have. Thanks!

[strikerratt]

corn snake king snake ball python

[Evans]

I know im new here but I would deffently recommend a corn snake.

[Wh00h0069]

ball python.

[MeMe]

Athough ball pythons are awesome snakes...they are not a good starter snake. Ball pythons can be quite a challenge for someone new to the hobby.

I would say a corn snake..or a king snake would be best. They are pretty forgiving snakes when it comes to husbandry and rarely go off feed.

For my daughter's 13 birthday she wanted a snake...we got her a corn.

[aledjones88]

Go with the corn.....

Ball pythons can be trouble wen they go off feeding as i recently discoverd,could be pretty dawnting for a newbie.

[anendeloflorien]

I would definitely say a corn snake There's not many snakes that are as easy to care for and you can get some really cool corn morphs without breaking the bank

[WaRocker]

Corn would be the best. They can handle a lil more "abuse" than a Ball python. I would of course have them read about the snake before they get it. Maybe even a small report?? Just a thought.

But remember here is something you must remember. These animals dont just die in a few years but live for many many many years. So be sure that the snake you buy is one your willing to keep as well. While they are off to school / college. Also keep in mind size when it grows up. This is a key thing when getteing a snake.

Other than all of that, have fun!!

[waltah!]

Corn snake is a great idea......but babies can be tough to get started eating. Maybe one that's a few months old and well started.

[Don]

Regardless of the snake that you choose, be sure to do your homework and understand the care and proper housing needed. I really hate to read about people who buy a snake, then complain about the cost of the proper set up.

The cost of the snake is only part of what is needed to care for the animal. Be sure to factor in the cost of everything needed to properly maintain the animal for many years.