Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've wanted to get a snake for a while now, but I can't decide what kind to get. I want to get either a Ball Python or a Rosy Boa, but I don't know which one would be better for me. I've never had a snake before. I've always loved reptiles, but my first real experience with them was a year ago when my sister bought me a Leopard Gecko for my birthday. I fell in love with him and I knew then that I wanted to start collecting more herps. I'm just wondering what input I might get from someone who has a Rosy or a Ball (or both). Which species would be easier to take care of for an amateur herper like myself? I've done a lot of research on both species, but I still can't decide. Any advice?

My vote...go with a coastal rosy.
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Thanks,
-JC
www.rosyboas.to

60 plus rosies
0.1 Boa constrictor
1.1 cats

I have both, a pair of Rosys (White Waters) & 2.10 Balls (assorted morphs). My opinion is you can't go wrong either way. I've found the Rosys generally a little easier to handle. Balls also have that unpredictable lack of feeding habit were a Rosys feeding habits are a little more seasonal.
Either one you choose, besure to one that's at least acouple of generations captive bred. Personally I've found multi-generation captive bred animals do better in the long run.

Rosy's are more laid back, Ball's move a little quicker. And a Rosy doesn't get nearly as large as a Ball. They both have pretty good temperaments though. It' your call, really.

-- Patrick

I usually suggest Rosys over Balls to beginners at the pet store where I work, mostly because they don't have the humidity needs and don't go off feed as often. They also stay smaller overall. I would say go hold at least one snake of each type and see which you like about them though. Also think about cage size, a Rosy can stay in a 20L but most Ball pythons will outgrow that. Good luck on your first snake!
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Danne
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1.0 BRB "Monroe"
1.1 Leos "Bowser & Peach"
0.3 cats "Beast, Smokey & Thelma"
0.4.2 fish