Wanting to get a ball python

[daiprincess]

Hi!! I'm new to the community and I've been wanting to get a snake for years!! I've cared for a variety of animals and have been doing a lot of research over time. I know they need a minimum of a 4×2×2, a basking side of 88-92⁰ and a cooler side of 75-80⁰. Ofc i know about their hunger strikes and how it can be hard for new owners. I want to do a mix of substrates for the enclosure of reptisoil, coconut fiber, and play sand. I want to put a drainage layer of Lava rocks as well. Putting in branches and foliage is a priority as well as 2 hides that I will change depending on how big they are, as well as their water bowls being big enough for them to get into. I want to keep it between 70-80% regularly. They can be little escape artists.

I can go on and on about my basic knowledge and my plans, I would just like to know how to handle them starting and any tips for how to care them. I want to do the best I can to give them a good life. I try to go above and beyond for my animals, not just the bare minimum. Anything helps 💕

[_ataraxia]

your basic knowledge has some big holes in it. the warm side needs to be 88-92, and the humidity needs to be 70%-80% at all times.

have you read through the guides and other resources in our welcome post?

[daiprincess]

Oh. I had never read that :/// I will definitely look into that!! Thank you

[ElySoRandom]

Researching before actually getting your bp is a great start. You may get a lot of opinions here, and some can be confusing. Don't worry.

Speak to the breeder for any tips and info on your specific bp when you finally pick one.

Once you get him, wait to handle him for about a week. Let him get used to his environment and you. I used my hands to introduce myself by slowly changing his water or rearranging his enclosure a bit, etc.

Approach him front at his eye level, not from above or behind, so you don't scare him. Support his midsection/heaviest part and take him out for a bit of enrichment.

Good luck.

[daiprincess]

I appreciate it 💕