lookin

[leeroy]

Seem to have researched hundreds of snakes im an absolute beginner. For some reason im drawn to the ball python as my first snake.
Its weighty and not too slender wont get too big, the only thing that puts me off are the eating issues.
what is the ideal first snake to get, don't want a wee thin one i would be scared i dropped it or hurt it.
But equally don't want a snake that's too strong for me, any thought appreciated.

[starry11]

Ball pythons are great first snakes. i've got 3 at the moment. There are alot of ones that don't eat so well but if you buy a captive bred juvenille that's already eating and doing well then you should be good to go. Theres lots of advice and tips to get them to eat aswell which helps. They are hardy and docile which is nice and have a bit of girth too. I'd reccomend getting a snake which you think you'll be totally happy with . If you like the ball python I'd say go for it!:)

[Chu'Wuti]

Leeroy, a lot of us here agree with Starry that BPs are great first snakes. The eating issues are definitely surmountable, too, and as Starry says, there's lots of information about how to get everything going well--right here on this forum as well as in many care sheets available.

One note of caution--dropping any snake can be injurious to the snake. However, as BPs typically lie quietly in your hands, it's unlikely you'll drop one! ;)

Read a bunch of care sheets and books about the husbandry requirements for any snake you think you want, and if you feel you can deal with the husbandry needs, such as equipment costs to ensure a good habitat, cleaning, etc., then go for it!

You can also check out threads by searching key words such as "feeding," "care" and so forth.

My DH & I got our first BP less than a year ago, and we're really enjoying it! Good luck with your decision!