Ball Python Tank Set Up

Are you planning to buy a ball python? Then you’ve made a great choice. Ball pythons are one of the most popular reptile pets and are one of the most docile pets you can own. While they may be great pets to own, they come at a price. Being exotic animals, they require a specific environment for growth. It’s important that they have an enclosure built to more or less replicate the conditions of their natural habitat. Otherwise, chances are they won’t survive.

Well, don’t worry, we got you covered! This blog covers some of the most important things to keep in mind while creating a ball python tank setup. We’ll cover enclosure selection, heating and lighting, substrate choices, enriching hides, and essential accessories to ensure your ball python lives a good life.

Opting for the Right Enclosure

The right enclosure for ball pythons depends on various factors. They are:

Size: On average, a ball python can grow up to 5 feet long. So while you consider ball python tank setup, ensure that the enclosure is of the dimensions 48″ (length) x 24″ (width) x 24″ (height), and this is the recommended dimensions for adults. Juveniles can start in smaller enclosures but plan and be ready to upgrade as they grow.

Materials: Materials play a major role when it comes to the thriving and surviving of Ball pythons. While creating an environment, ensure that the materials are made from popular and proven materials such as glass terrariums, PVC enclosures, and wooden enclosures. Glass terrariums are known to offer excellent visibility, while PVC and wood provide better heat retention. Any option you choose must have good ventilation, often achieved with mesh tops or screened vents.

Security: Ball Pythons are known to frequently escape from their enclosures. So  while building its enclosure, ensure that the enclosure is tall enough and the locking mechanism is secure.

Heating for Ball Python Tank Set Up

Being a cold-blooded species, heating is a critical factor when it comes to the thriving and survival of snakes. They require a temperature gradient within their enclosure to regulate their body temperature. 

Heat Source: One of the most common and best choices is to install under-tank heaters (UTH) in enclosures. They provide the much-needed gentle belly heat that ball pythons crave.

Thermostat: A thermostat plays a crucial role in regulating the UTH and preventing overheating. It should be set to maintain a warm side temperature of 88-92°F (31-33°C) and a cool side temperature of 76-80°F (24-27°C).

Temperature Monitoring: Use digital thermometers with probes to monitor temperatures at both the warm and cool sides of the enclosure.

Lighting for your Ball Python Tank Set Up

Ball pythons are nocturnal reptiles. This means low-level UVB lighting can be beneficial for their survival. It can promote vitamin D3 synthesis, which aids in calcium absorption. While choosing a bulb, choose a low-UVB bulb (around 2.0 UVB) and ensure proper placement to avoid creating a basking spot. Nighttime lighting isn’t necessary, but red or blue LED lights can be used for viewing purposes without disturbing your pet’s sleep cycle.

The Foundation for your Ball Python Tank Set Up

The substrate to be used as the floor lining for your enclosure plays a pivotal role in humidity control and provides a burrowing medium for your ball python. 

While choosing your substrate ensure that the substrate resembles tropical soil that belongs to its original habitat. There should be at least 4” substrate lining to help maintain a higher humidity level. So when it comes to a 48″ (length) x 24″ (width) x 24″ (height) enclosure, add at least 80 quarts or 2.7 cubic feet of substrate 

Now, lets take a look at some of the most popular options:

Aspen Shaving: One of the cheapest and most absorbent substrates, aspen shaving is a popular choice among python owners. But keep in mind that Aspen shavings are high-maintenance and require frequent changes due to their tendency to mold.

Coconut Husk Bedding: Yet another popular choice, coconut husk reptile bedding are a great choice for substrate. They mimic the soil environment that pythons love and offer the best moisture retention and provides burrowing enrichment. If you’re looking for the best bedding for ball python, then check out Reptilair! 

Paper towels: Easy to clean and disposable paper towels are an emergency option if no other substrate is available. But keep in mind that they offer no burrowing opportunities and provide poor humidity retention.

Feels like Home Decor for your Ball Python Tank Set Up

Now that the enclosure, heat, light, and flooring are set up, it’s time for the fun part! Get your creative juices flowing and create a decor that perfectly mimics your ball python’s natural habitat.  Provide at least two hides in your ball python tank set up: one on the warm side and one on the cool side. Here are some options:

• Commercial hides: Available in various materials and sizes, offering a variety of hiding options.
• DIY hides: Cardboard boxes, PVC pipes with capped ends, and overturned plastic containers can be transformed into budget-friendly hides. Ensure they are smooth and free of sharp edges.

To make it more like their home, you can add more decoration and enrichment elements to keep your ball python mentally stimulated. Here are some ideas:

• Climbing branches and vines: Provide opportunities for climbing and exploring through climbing branches and vines.
• Fake plants: Create a more natural environment and make sure to add hiding spots.
• Water dish large enough to soak in: Ball pythons enjoy a nice soak in the water once in a while, so make sure to provide a sturdy water dish they can fully submerge in.

Conclusion

You’re ready! Now that you know what to do, it’s time to convert words into action! Make sure you’re ball python has the best life in its enclosure! 

Also don’t forget about the substrate. While selecting your snake bedding, make sure that it is from a reputed organization like Reptilair and that the substrate is made with the most comfortable materials for your ball python!

So, get your creativity going, personalize the enclosure to your liking, and most importantly, enjoy getting to know your ball python! If you’re wondering how to take care of a snake, these steps will help ensure your ball python thrives.