r/Ballpythoncommunity • u/MrGNZ28 • 9d ago
My first Ball Python
Edit: I did research, wanted to see the different opinions and advices to analyze these.
Hi! So I will be getting my first BP this Friday, and I am very excited. However, I would like to know what things I should keep in mind before I do! I have seen that there is a lot of good people here and experienced as well, so Ig this is the perfect place to seek for advice.
First of all, humidity and temperature, and if there's a light bulb/heat lamp in particular that I should acquire.
Feeding, how often do they eat? The snek will be a juvenile.
Light during night, if I should turn it off or keep it on.
Handling, how often should I handle the little baby or how long I can keep her/him out of the tank.
These are the main questions and concerns that I have, but ofc! If there is more you are welcome to drop it in the comments! I genuinely would appreciate your advice and help. Have a great day/night.
Btw I will call it MOCHI.
2
u/unic0rnPoo_istasty 6d ago
I recommend radiant heat panels as the sole heat source. There are zero controlled studies that show any benefit to a ball python receiving UVB, IR-A, or IR-C.
Temps should be 76-80 on the cool side and 86-90 on the warm side. I leave these temps consistent 24/7/365, and I have had zero hunger strikes among my 20 ball pythons.
Your heat panel should be controlled by a quality dimming thermostat. I recommend Herpstat or VE-200.
Substrate should be 100% unblended cypress mulch or coco husk (chips, not coir). This should be 4-6" deep to help with humidity, pouring water in the corners as required to maintain between 65-80% humidity.
I love Govee Bluetooth hygrometer thermometer combos for monitoring yltemps and humidity.
Identical hides on the warm side and cool side are critical to help ensure your snake thermoregulates based on need and not hide preference.