Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone,
I was wondering what you guys would think is the "perfect" cage for a Ball Python, like setup-wise, size-wise, etc. The reason why I'm asking is that I am planning on building the "perfect" cage for my little guy over the summer and I figured that it's always good to have outside input on something like this, considering that this is my first Ball Python (let alone snake) and I'm still learning things.
Also, I have some pictures on what my current tank for Kahlua (my little guy) looks like. Could you guys also give me some input on how things look?
Thank you all very much!

(I'm sorry in advance for the crummy pictures... there isn't the best lighting in my room.)

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Brittany
http://www.myspace.com/sunflowerinlove
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1.0 '07 Regular BP *Kahlua*

I would say that your driftwood and vines is "above and beyond", but Kahlua would probably be happier with a snug little hide box. I thier native africa balls spend thier days in rodent burrows and seem to feel more secure in a snug hide. CM

im assuming you are using glass enclosure so you can view your snake, i do the same however i cover the back and 2 sides of my glass snake enclosures with black cloth (keeps it darker and they feel more secure that way) and a red heat light for viewing... try that, you may see your snake is a little more active during the hours you are awake.

looks nice though
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chris
abilene, tx.

I would suggest two hides; one in the warm side and one around the cooler side. That way, your ball has a choice of where it wants to spend its down time in the security of a hide. Although balls do tend to climb for basking (or trying to escape), they are terrestrial snakes and do not need high vertical branches (although they do look nice and won't hurt anything).

Newspaper is great, especially for cleaning. To add a natural touch, I use cypress mulch. It does not mold and is quite absorbent. I spot clean my snake's enclosure when necessary and change the substrate every month. DO NOT USE CEDAR OR PINE. The oils may be toxic to your snake. Also, stay away from bark.

I attach fake greenery (bought at a craft store) above the aquarium, near the aquarium lid with strong suction cups (the ones with soft silicone? hooks seem to hold better). This will also add to the security of your snake (from "predators coming from above).

In terms of the water dish, I place it between the warm and cool sides in my 55 gal. long glass tank. I find that I'm able to regulate the humidity this way. I have a screen top, so if I want to increase the humidity, I place hand towels on the screen top.

I lean towards "naturalistic" enclosures, but remember, the more you add, the more you have to clean.

0.1 '07 normal ball python
1.0 '07 amenalistic (red albino) cornsnake

0.2 English bulldogs
0.1 piebald dachsund

Here's some pics of my enclosure...

Pics are not the greatest, but offer an idea...