Hi! I’m getting a ball python soon and I haven’t quite figured out what to do. Im a very “step by step” learner, and have a hard time with vague directions, so google hasn’t been much help on top of the outdated articles and misinformation. I have the space for a 120 gallon/4x2x2 or possibly a 5x2x2, and its going to go on the wall across from my window which is 5x6 feet. My main concern is lighting and heat. I haven’t found much solid info on what to do and everyones ideas are different. I know I need a ‘cold’ side and a hot side, but I dont know what to do as far as which heat lamp/lighting to get. Should I get an exterior heat lamp to go on top of a mesh top, or an interior bulb? Which brands? Do I need other types of lighting, such as UVB or something like that? I know they can benefit from it but Im wondering if he would need it as I get a ton of natural sunlight from my window. What thermostats, etc, do y’all recommend? I just want the best set up for him from the start. Pictures of set-ups and links to items are welcomed/encouraged, as well as extra tips. I love the help, thanks!!
So unfortunately Idk if I can tell you any brands to go for, I think it may go against Community Guidelines to do so.
But I can offer advice on the care you’ll need to give a BP.
Here are the basics:
•Temperatures:
-Hot end 84-86°F with a basking spot no hotter than 89°F
-Cool end 75-80°F
•Humidity:
50-60%
•Feeding:
-Rats that are 10% body weight of the BP in grams every 10 days, or 7 days if the BP is still a baby. Whether you feed live or f/t is up to what the BP wants and is used to eating. Just be sure to always monitor live feedings if it comes to that.
Since you plan on purchasing a larger enclosure I’d definitely make sure your BP has plenty of places to hide. They love dark snug spots!
For substrate a good combo you can do is reptichip, sphagnum moss and leaf litter. It also works great if you want to add stuff like springtails or isopods to help keep the enclosure cleaner.
As far as heating goes you can get overhead heating like a heat lamp, CHE, radiant heat panels, and heat tape/mats. Just make sure you can get something to hook them up to to adjust and monitor temps. You can get a infrared heat gun to accurately monitor temps, do not use the cheap thermometers from pet stores, they are not accurate. You can buy digital hygrometers that work way better.
Anything I missed will likely be covered by others.
You can recommend different brands of supplies, lighting, heating etc., just not breeders
Thanks so much, I really appreciate it!