Ball Python Care Guide / Shopping List / Tips and Tricks

[Stewart_Reptiles]

Tip, tricks and FAQ

I just purchased a Ball Python, now what?

Since BP are shy by nature it will take some time for your new companion to adjust to his new environment.

Set him up in his enclosure and leave him alone for a wee, do not handle your snake during that week unless it is absolutely necessary.

Once a week has passed offer food, if you are successful you will be able to handle your new companion 48 hours after his first meal, if you are not try again a week later keeping handling to a minimum.

Why is my baby nippy?

Remember that young BP can sometime be a little nippy; remember that they see you as predator. Younger BP might need a little time to adjust to their new surrounding as well as their new owner.

Prior to handle your new snake make sure to observe his body language; if your new companion is in a striking position do not attempt to handle him.

Always make him aware of your presence prior to handle him.

Make sure your husbandry is optimum, establish a good feeding routine, feed your new BP in his enclosure and not outside, do not over handle your new companion and be patient.

My ball python will not eat what should I do?

First know that, as long as your BP does not lose too much weight he will be fine, second try to proceed by elimination to find out if there is anything that can be done so your BP resumes feeding.

Check your temperature and make sure they are 78-80 on the cool side, 88-90 on the warm side; of course this means you must have an accurate reading provided by a digital thermometer/hygrometer.

Check your humidity and make sure it is between 50%-60% Make sure that the enclosure is in a low traffic area.

Make sure your enclosure is the appropriated size, an enclosure that is too big can be overwhelming, and can cause stress over time.

Make sure your hides are tight enough so your Ball Python can snug in, all sides must be touching your BP's body (Avoid log hides as they do not really provide enough security for a Ball Python).

If you handle your Ball Python often, try to limit handling (Too much handling can cause stress)

Ball Pythons will also fast, to catch up if the prey they have eaten in the past were too big or if you fed them too often. Try feeding your Ball Python a prey slightly smaller than the girth size, once a week, and nothing bigger than a small rat (4 weeks old) for an adult BP. This will allow your Ball Python to feed with more consistency.

Detailed trouble shooting that will help you getting your newly acquired hatchling or juvenile eating for you https://ball-pythons.net/forums/show...-hatchling-101

Important:

Keep in mind that Ball Pythons are not social creatures and do better when house individually.