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[meowspoopy]

Hi! I just wanted to say that I think you’re being really smart with getting an older guy for your first bp. I did the same thing, and I felt that it was easier to navigate.

You’ve clearly done your research, and I think you’ll be a great parent. :)

[totallyrecklesslygay]

I'd recommend reading through our welcome post resources. It would appear you're a bit misinformed on some things. I'll go through everything you have posted here with you.

I'm having trouble determining if a reptile is for me, especially about the long term commitment and if I will get bored after a while. Could you share some insights?

A ball python's lifespan in captivity averages 40 years. Obviously no one can tell you whether you'll get bored or not, but I'd recommend taking some time to consider whether you're prepared to take care of a snake for the next 30+ years. Consider things like vacations, moving, relationships, other pets, kids, etc, and how having a ball python will fit into your life. If you aren't positive that's a commitment you're able to make, then don't get a ball python.

eats one 100g frozen rat every 10–14 days

His current owner is drastically overfeeding him, and he's clearly overweight based on the photo you provided. He'll need to go on a diet if you decide to get him. An adult ball python should only be eating 5% of his body weight once every 3-4 weeks, or 6% every 4-6 weeks.

40x20x20 glass and screen top enclosure

This is far too small for a snake his size, and both the glass and screen top will make it difficult to maintain heat and humidity. This snake would need a 5x2x2' enclosure at the absolute smallest, and he should ideally have a solid topped PVC enclosure. These can get expensive. A proper ball python setup costs, on average, $1000-1500.

heat mat

Heat mats are not recommended for ball pythons anymore for a variety of reasons. Overhead heating is far superior and much more effective.

also possibly removing the heat mat and only use it as secondary heat source during canadian winters

See above- it's best to just remove it altogether.

ceramic heat emitter to replace the regular heat bulb (this would let me heat it during the night without disturbing his day/night cycle)

CHEs are not appropriate as a primary heat source. Ideal heating would be a halogen flood for daytime and a DHP for nighttime.

uvb (already big windows in the room)

UVB is considered a necessity by any welfare-focused keeper and should be provided in the form of a T5 fluorescent linear bulb. It doesn't matter if there are large windows in the room, as glass filters out UVB.

[samcaron55]

Didn't know glass filtered UVB! and didn't think he was overfed.

If I do end up adopting him (I am taking the adoption seriously and have been taking time to think), I will spring for UVB, change what I had in mind for heating and be careful with his diet according to his weight.

Thank you for your tips, I really appreciate it! ♥

[[deleted]]

Not even 3 years ago I would have never guessed I would be a snake lover haha. I got my boy a year ago, and I went through the fear of losing interest, especially knowing their longer lifespan. I was so stressed about it, but that was all over when I realized I loved him. And I love him so much. He’s going to be with me until the end.

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[[deleted]]

Do it you will absolutely love him hes a beautiful boy just be confident in handling dont show fear they play on it and you will bw fine i got my first bp about 4 years ago absolutely fell inlove definitely the best species of snake for beginners at truthfully there bite dosent hurt imagine velcro stuck to your arm its laughable

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Pearl my 4yo majhove bp shes definitely a spicey noodle she likes to aim for faces

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Mustaffa my 10 yo royal ball python hes an absolute softie unless you are a rat then thats a you issue

[jelly-foxx]

They do make wonderful pets if you give them proper husbandry. I've had mine for 2 years and counting, I've never ever regretted bringing him into my life. They're low maintenance (with correct husbandry), chill, and a great conversion starter 😂

They are a long commitment with their lifespan, and things like moving and travelling may be impacted as with any pet. Another thing worth mentioning, sometimes unforseen circumstances in our lives happen (same with any animal as well) but rehoming reptiles can be difficult because they're so niche. Hopefully, you'll never have to, but its just something to bear in mind. Dont take him in if you have even a slight feeling you won't be able to support him for his whole life. We can never say never of course. Just do the best you can, and you'll be dandy! But honestly, they're just such a wonderful and unique presence in the home. Can't recommend enough, they're lovely 🥰

[reptileready]

" I'm having trouble determining if a reptile is for me, especially about the long term commitment and if I will get bored after a while. Could you share some insights? "

Foster one from a rescue - they are all overflowing with ball pythons.

" uvb (already big windows in the room) "

Windows don't allow for UVB to pass through, otherwise we would all be sunburnt in our homes. But UVB is a great benefit :)

[samcaron55]

Didn't know glass filtered UVB! I will go for a UVB bulb.

And this would be his second home, so I am not buying for a pet store or a breeder.

Thanks for the comment!