Too soon to switch housing?

[Amanda_D]

Hi, I'm new to this site and a first time snake owner..please don't cringe!! Also...this first thread will probably be windy! I just got my BP Monday and I must say, even though I can't handle him just yet I absolutely adore him already. I decided to purchase a snake because my 3 year old (don't worry...he will NOT be handling him) would rather watch reptile documentaries instead of cartoons! I thought it would be something we could do together and it would be a good way to teach him about these wonderful creatures at a young age. And...I've secretly always wanted one so it was a good excuse.

Anyway..I've researched for weeks and got the housing all set-up. The problem is I was torn between the Sand Boa & BP. I know..both tricky first time snakes, but I'm up to the challenge. I leaned towards the boa because they get a little smaller. I set up a 20 gallon terrarium thinking I was bringing home the boa. Well...my heart really wanted the BP, regardless of the size. Now I would like to upgrade to a 40 gallon terrarium but am worried about moving him already so soon. The only reason being I could still return the 20 gallon terrarium. I was thinking of purchasing the 40 gallon one, setting it up and then returning the 20 gallon one. If it is too soon though I don't care about being out the money and will wait. Maybe I'm just naive, but he seems like a happy little guy..haven't had to feed yet though, as he just ate for them. I have hides on both the warm & cool side, but I've only seen him ball up and hide once. He really likes to be in a corner and not balled up at all. And, I saw him drinking the other night before going to bed, which was really cool!

Well...thanks ahead for any info. Sorry this is so long..everyone I share this with says "Yuck" so I wanted a place to chat with other snake lovers like myself.

[Aaron_S]

First off, congratulations on your new pet. As well as it's great to hear you're teaching your child at a very young age about snakes and the responsiblity of a pet.

To answer your question, ball pythons usually do better in smaller enclosures to start. Most snakes do anyways. If you're dead set on the 40 gallon you can go ahead and get it but make sure there are a lot of hiding places for the little guy. I personally would suggest stick to the 20 gallon for now. As the smaller space will make the snake feel more secure.

If he's not hiding in his hiding places are they too large for it? I mean that snakes like to feel really secure when they are hiding. It would much rather have a hiding place where it can feel the sides all around it than a spacious one. That could be why he's only been in the corner.

[Amanda_D]

Thanks ~ that's great news that I don't have to switch him. You know the pet stores....they just said it would probably be good to invest now since he will need it down the road. I will just wait though until he outgrows this one then. I don't believe the hides are too large. I read that they should be able to curl up in them and be able to feel all sides touching to feel secure. He has now been hiding all the time! I did a little rearranging..even though I had the same hides on both cool/hot sides. I moved around the hides, basking branch & water dish. He must like it better now! I guess nobody is kidding when they say they are tricky & finicky snakes!

[Aaron_S]

They aren't that finicky. Usually it's the feeding that people have problems with.

Just make sure the temperatures and humidity are appropriate levels.