Noob with Heat / Lighting question

[Edge]

Hi All,

I am looking at buying my first snake and I want to get a ball python. I have been doing some research / talking to folks at a couple different reptile stores. I am getting varying opinions on housing / lighting / and heating best practices.

I am currently leaning towards a 40gal breeder tank / UTH (nighttime) / basking bulb (daytime)

What are your thoughts on the best cage / heating / lighting for a ball python?

Thanks,

Edge

 

[hhmoore]

While tanks can be made to work, they're not a great choice for snake housing...especially if the snake happens to be a ball python. It is difficult to maintain proper conditions (temperature and humidity) in a tank; and they don't offer much privacy/security for a ball python. (Moved to ball python discussion forum)

Edited to add:
Ball pythons are nocturnal; bright, hot lights are not "normal" for them.
If you want to use overhead heating and a tank, I would recommend an infra red bulb OR a ceramic heat emitter (either option should have done form of controller to prevent overheating).

 

[Edge]

What would you recommend for housing a ball python?

 

[Ohhwataloser]

What are your thoughts on the best cage / heating / lighting for a ball python?

A plastic tub, such as a sterlite or iris container, it holds heat and humidity well, easy to clean

uth of some kind on a thermostat, consistent safe temperatures.

no lightning is need for ball pythons

 

[ApReptiles]

Agreed^

 

[Edge]

Thanks for the advice!

 

[PlatinumRosePythons]

If you want a good cage I'd look at vision cages or animal plastics. I have all mine in glass aquariums with hides in them with no issues.

 

[piedplus]

I'm partial to Really Useful Boxes (RUB's) available on line or at Staples. It's an extra nice plastic bin that's vented. Good Luck.