Corns are a wonderful starter snake, and they come in many different colors. As a rule they have great temperaments and grow into mellow adults. Milk snakes, although compatible in ease of care, tend to be flightier in terms of handling--they move alot!

If you decide on a ball python, be sure to buy one that is captive bred from a reputable breeder. Petco is a no-no since most of the bps are wild caught or captive hatched on a farm (the gravid mothers are wild caught and give birth in captivity). These animals often have parasitea and/or feeding issues.

Captive bred babies with gentle, consistent handling, tend to grow up into nicely mannered adults. They require a bit more attention in terms of humdity levels than corns, but are still relatively straight forward to take care of.

Best of luck--your son is a lucky boy!

rgds,
althea

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