I own 20 ball pythons. I have been keeping them for over 6 years. I all of them eat weekly, except for breeding season and shedding. I keep all of my ball pythons in rack systems. Most do not have a hide. My ambient temps are around 80 and my hot sides heat tape is set at 95. My first ball python was kept in an aquarium. He ate great for the first 3-4 years, then I moved him into a bigger aquarium, and he was fine for about 6 months. Then one day he stopped eating. He didn't eat for 6 months, then finally took one small rat. Then started eating much like yours. I finally bought a sweaterbox rack system, that had heat tape on one side. I also bought a johnson controls thermostat. I set it at 95. I put him his tub with a tighter hide box, and gave him a week to get used to his new home. The next time I tried to feed him a small rat, he took it with gusto. And has been doing great ever since.

It is true that ball pythons are picky eaters. But most of the time they are just stressed out. I have seen them strike at prey, just to get it away from them. Once your BP feels comfortable, you will see a major change. Also, when your BP bit you, it was most likely because he was stressed. You should not handle him much until he feels more comfortable. I am not saying you have to get a rack system, but if you plan on getting any more BP, then it wouldn't be a bad idea. They love tight spaces.

Hope this helps...

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