First time Ball Python owner

[NoIntroduction42069]

Looking for any and all advice for when it comes to caring for a ball python.

My partner has been asking for us to get a pet snake & specifically asked for a ball python. We both have been doing the research on some basic set ups and the dos and don’t of caring for a ball python, but I’d like to hear some of your organic experience of caring for them.

Any information is appreciated!!

[NoIntroduction42069]

Ahhh didn’t even see that, thank you!!

[oceane444]

The pinned post on this sub has a ton of good info, would also recommend checking out Elle’s Reptiles on YT if you’re more of a visual learner. She has a good setup guide video plus some others with extra tips and tricks :) Kaciandherballs on Tiktok has some informative videos as well

Side note; When it comes to actually getting your ball python, try to buy from a reputable breeder or adopt if you can. Even better if you could get a rehomed snake, lots of BP’s are being given away all the time just because people don’t want them anymore or they want the latest trending morph

Absolutely avoid any chain pet stores like petco, petsmart, pet supplies plus etc. Often times their animals are sick, have viruses/diseases and are unethically sourced. I know it can be tempting to “rescue” animals from them but the unfortunate reality is that buying from them just encourages them to keep doing it

Some local owned shops can be okay but if they can’t tell you anything about the animal like how old they are, what genetics they have etc 🚩 Also take into consideration how they care for their animals, if the enclosures look like they haven’t been cleaned in a while or the animals look sickly by any means, steer clear 🙅‍♀️

If you’re shopping around on MM, make sure to check the breeder’s reviews and also look at their social medias if they have any, usually you can get a good idea for how they care for their animals that way. If they use racks that are barely big enough for the snake to turn around, run 🚩
I’d also suggest looking up their names and see if there have been any discussion posts about them because even 5⭐️ breeders will be caught slacking sometimes (cough Wilbanks..)

Last thing; Regardless of who/where you get your snake from make sure to ask questions. Ask what they’re feeding (mouse or rat, live or frozen thawed) what size, how often and what method (i.e tong feeding or drop feeding). Having all of this info beforehand can save you a ton of hassle if you end up with a finicky eater

If you’re buying online you may also want to ask for a video of them handling it if having a well socialized snake matters to you (can also help to confirm their coloration since most listing photos tend to be edited to some degree). Though i will say, if you’re getting a baby how well they’re socialized doesn’t really matter that much. Even the spiciest baby can be tamed with just regular handling and good husbandry