A ball python is a relatively docile snake species, noted for its tendency to curl up into a circle shape when it is scared. If you would like to purchase this type of snake to begin your status as a new snake owner, prepare their living quarters and familiarize yourself with a ball python's eating habits.

Recreate A Natural Habitat

Grassy plains or densely-wooded areas make suitable habitats for native ball pythons. This type of snake can become several feet in length. Due to the mannerisms of a constrictor and its likelihood to track prey while laying in an inconspicuous area, a ball python will crave foliage or structural supports that they can hide in or under. Your snake's terrarium should consist of a glass enclosure that contains a top piece that latches securely.

Because a ball python will increase its body mass within the first year of pet ownership, you should invest in an aquarium that provides plenty of extra space for your ball python to move around. Lining the bottom of the terrarium with cedar chips or wood shavings will provide somewhere for your snake to burrow.

A ball python may seek refuge on tree branches or underneath natural materials. Purchase some faux branches, small logs, and box-like structures for your snake to use while resting or hiding. Each addition to the aquarium should provide plenty of support for the weight and size of your snake.

Observing some snakes that are for sale at a pet shop will help you determine how large each stick, log, or structure should initially be. As your pet snake grows in size, you may need to exchange the materials within the terrarium, for items that are larger in size.

Offer Your Pet A Consistent Diet

The ball pythons that are for sale at a pet shop may/may not have visible food inside of their habitat. Ball pythons that are young may eat one or two times a week. Older ball pythons that are larger in size may eat less frequently. Ask a pet shop owner about the snakes on display and their regular feeding habits.

Young snakes can eat freeze-dried rats, grasshoppers, and manufactured pellets. An older snake can eat live rodents. You should be ready to observe your pet ball python while it is eating. Live prey could scratch your snake, necessitating a careful and close observation as your pet snake gets ready to attack a rodent.

Look for ball pythons for sale after learning more about their needs and living conditions.