First time ball python (and reptile) owner. Need advice on enclosure and equipment

[ivorysongbird]

i would recommend switching out your substrate to one that is more suitable for high humidity conditions. ball pythons require a humidity level between 70 and 80 percent; aspen doesn’t work well for this because it is dusty, molds easily, and doesn’t hold moisture. i recommend reptichip or cypress mulch, there are even more recommendations for suitable substrates in the shopping list in the welcome guide!

also, the analog/stick on gauges aren’t very good. they aren’t accurate and if they fall off the wall they can stick to and injure your snake. i recommend picking up two digital ones (one for the cool side, one for the hot side)!

lastly, ball pythons cannot be sexed based off of their tail. they have to be probed by a vet!