All right, I've looked up a bunch of stuff and I feel I am prepared to get my first Ball Python this Sunday. I have read different things on different care sheets though, so I was wondering if you guys could clear some things up for me.
(1) Heating. I know about the "cool" spot, hot spot, air temp, etc. But it's what to use to heat the thing. Should I use a mat and UTH (under tank heater)? Mat & light clamp or just a light? Some places say just a mat is okay, some places say just a light is okay, and some say both is better.
(2) Feeding. I know about feeding frozen, but apparently this snake only eats live small rats. I know the risks in feeding live, but I was wondering how difficult it'd be to switch over. And if I put him separately in an enclosure with the rat and watch and make sure he eats it, is that safe? I have no experience with this sort of thing so I am asking before I make such a big commitment.
(3) Housing. Other than substrate, thermometers, hygrometers, 2 hides, water dish. Is there anything else I should include in his aquarium?
(4) Noise. How much noise can Ball Pythons tolerate? Would a tv (no surround) stress them out as long as it's on moderate in the same room?