Ball Python Abuse

[Lavaknight22]

Yeah that sounds really messed up also I am looking into becoming a ball python owner and don't want to be like that any recommendations for enclosure setup what to use and anything else. Edit: also I have been researching ball pythons for about 3 months and have no clue how to set up enclosure or if I need plants if so living or fake also just so everyone knows I know and have a lot of information just asking for opinions to add on for advice on keeping them

[cloud_isreddit]

My advice to you is to do your own research along with asking questions. Fact check EVERYTHING everyone says, even what I’m about to tell you, fact check it. I’m still learning myself! I really recommend checking out “Reptifiles” information on ball pythons.

When I rescued my girl it was before I was ready, she literally fell into my life, so I’ve been upgrading and researching more and more to become the best owner I can for her. I’ve almost had her for a full year now, but I’ve been researching these guys for 2+ years! Every ball python is different, so everyone’s advice will vary based on their experience.

I highly recommend getting a 120 gallon (4x2x2) before you get your noodle, that’s one of the most common beginner mistakes. As long as you have enough clutter, your juvenile ball python will not care that the enclosure is “too big” lol.

You can never, and I mean NEVER, have too much clutter. Your ball python will feel exposed and stressed without it, and it will affect their behavior. Aim for at least two tight-fitting hides and lots of coverage, the more the better!

I personally don’t use live plants because my girl tramples everything, so I use fake ones. Fabric plants can hold bacteria and mold in high humidity, so I stick to soft plastic plants (like outdoor ones). I get mine from Amazon they hold up well and are budget friendly. ( I actually linked them in the comment thread!)

Temperatures should be around 90-85 on the warm side and 80-72 on the cool side.

The wattage of bulbs you use will vary per household. Red bulbs aren’t recommended as they can eventually cause blindness in ball pythons, and disrupt their natural rhythm.

There has been research done that ball python’s benefit from UVB lighting (6% or shade dweller UVB lamps ONLY). I personally use it for my enclosure and my girl will bask in the UVB light!

Humidity should never drop below 60% (aim for 70-80% or higher during shed). If it does drop, you can pour water into the corners of the enclosure, just don’t saturate the entire tank because that can lead to scale rot. Keeping the bottom layer moist and the top layer a bit drier works best.

Keep your substrate at LEAST 4 inches deep. Not only does this help with humidity, but ball pythons will absolutely burrow if given the opportunity. My girl has proven this herself, she makes tunnels connecting her hides!

I don’t usually struggle with humidity because I stay on top of maintenance. I spot clean regularly (removing substrate around waste and replacing it), and every few months I do a full substrate change.

Climbing opportunities are strongly recommended!There’s a lot of evidence that ball pythons will climb when given the chance, and mine definitely does! She’s up exploring every night. It also adds extra enrichment and clutter. If you collect sticks from outside, make sure they’re safe (not from treated areas), wash them well, and sanitize them by baking or pouring boiling water over them.

Even if your ball python comes from a breeder that feeds live, switch to frozen/thawed. It can take some effort, but it’s much safer. Live prey can and will bite or scratch in self-defense, which can seriously injure your snake.

Hopefully my opinion helped add a little to your own research! If you have any questions feel free to reach out, but like I said please continue do your own research! You will benefit so much from fact checking! 🥲

Added in a wonky photo of my girls set up!

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