#ball python tank

This is a new tank I’m working on for a ball python we are eventually gonna get. Was looking for pointers, additions, whatever. The substrate is crushed walnut (plan on feeding frozen outside of tank) and I haven’t bought my light for basking yet cause I’m not sure what I need to keep it in the 80s? that balls need. The tank itself is at least 50 gallons and is longer than taller.

Hi! :) 

That’s great that you’re working on getting everything ready before the snake comes home! I love some of the decor you have in there, especially the thing in back for climbing.

I would honestly suggest changing the substrate. Crushed walnut doesn’t hold moisture very well at all. Ball pythons need higher humidity (minimum of 55%) and it’d be better to have something that will help with that. I currently use a mix of loose substrates for Charis, but I know that aspen and coco chips are two really common options. I would suggest checking into those! And on the subject on humidity, if you have a screen lid for the tank, you’ll likely want to cover it with plastic or tin foil to help keep humidity in as well.

It’d also be a good idea to plan on feeding in the tank instead - it’s pretty easy to train a snake for when it’s food time vs when it’s handling time to avoid accidental bites. Moving the snake for feeding time can stress them out & cause them to refuse food, regurgitate food, and you may be even more likely to get bitten because you’re trying to move a hungry snake.

I would also add more fake plants! Lots of permeable cover that the snake can move through while still feeling hidden is great for keeping ball pythons comfortable. Another thing I did when Charis was living in a tank was cover the back and both sides with cardboard to help her feel less exposed. :) You could also use styrofoam to help insulate the tank & keep more stable temps.

If you can, I would suggest returning the water bowl you have in there, or save it to use for something else. Big bowls are better for ball pythons - they don’t soak often, but they should have the option if they want. A large water bowl also helps with keeping the humidity up. Large dog bowls work really well & you can often find them pretty cheap!

For heating, a lot of people use heating mats rather than basking lights. Other options are ceramic heat emitter (CHE) bulbs or radiant heat panels. All heating options MUST be on a thermostat, so make sure you figure that cost in too!

If you haven’t already, I would check out @wheremyscalesslither‘s great write-ups! http://wheremyscalesslither.tumblr.com/post/132616408818/my-ball-python-resources There’s a few on heating that might help you decide what you want to use and explains how to set up the thermostat and such.