Tub Size
When properly designed, a ball python habitat will encourage positive use of the space through natural behaviors. Using species appropriate enrichment, as well as a correct heat gradient, will allow for the snake to remain stimulated physically and mentally. (For more information on the theory of enrichment, please review the enrichment resources)
Because enrichment is important for good animal welfare, keepers must provide enough space to allow for a variety of natural behaviors. The rule of thumb is to use an enclosure that is at least as long as a snake. There is also solid evidence that ball pythons climb, so giving them vertical room to climb will also allow them to complete natural behaviors.
Tub size may depend on the age of your snake. As long as the enclosure is properly furnished with correct temperature parameters, a larger tub can be made appropriate for a small ball python.
They typical rule of thumb for enclosure size is to provide a space that is at least as long as the snake. Here is the minimum tub size suggested for each stage of life:
Hatchling (60-300 g): 16 qt/15 L; 16 ¾" L x 11 7/8" W x 7" H (42.5cm L x 30.2cm W x 17.8cm H)
Hatchling (300-700 g): 32 qt/30 L; 23 5/8" L x 16 3/8" W x 6 ½" H (60cm L x 41.6cm W x 16.5cm H)
Sub/small-adult (700-1500 g): 110 qt/104 L; 34 5/8" L x 18 ¾" W x 12 5/8" H (87.9cm L x 47.6cm W x 32.1cm H)
Larger Adult (1500+g): IRIS Christmas Tree Bin 53"L x 21"W x 14"H (134.62”L x 53.34”W x 35.56”H)
Rack Systems
Rack systems look, for the most part, like this. They are usually built out of melamine or PVC sheeting. Racks allow for keepers to save space. The rack functions as the lid for the enclosure, keeping it snug and secure. If you are not using a rack, please make sure you buy the tubs with a locking lid. You can also modify the lid so the snake won’t escape.
When properly designed, a ball python habitat will encourage positive use of the space through natural behaviors. Using species appropriate enrichment, as well as a correct heat gradient, will allow for the snake to remain stimulated physically and mentally. (For more information on the theory of enrichment, please review the enrichment resources)
Because enrichment is important for good animal welfare, keepers must provide enough space to allow for a variety of natural behaviors. The rule of thumb is to use an enclosure that is at least as long as a snake. There is also solid evidence that ball pythons climb, so giving them vertical room to climb will also allow them to complete natural behaviors.
Tub size may depend on the age of your snake. As long as the enclosure is properly furnished with correct temperature parameters, a larger tub can be made appropriate for a small ball python.
They typical rule of thumb for enclosure size is to provide a space that is at least as long as the snake. Here is the minimum tub size suggested for each stage of life:
Hatchling (60-300 g): 16 qt/15 L; 16 ¾" L x 11 7/8" W x 7" H (42.5cm L x 30.2cm W x 17.8cm H)
Hatchling (300-700 g): 32 qt/30 L; 23 5/8" L x 16 3/8" W x 6 ½" H (60cm L x 41.6cm W x 16.5cm H)
Sub/small-adult (700-1500 g): 110 qt/104 L; 34 5/8" L x 18 ¾" W x 12 5/8" H (87.9cm L x 47.6cm W x 32.1cm H)
Larger Adult (1500+g): IRIS Christmas Tree Bin 53"L x 21"W x 14"H (134.62”L x 53.34”W x 35.56”H)
Rack Systems
Rack systems look, for the most part, like this. They are usually built out of melamine or PVC sheeting. Racks allow for keepers to save space. The rack functions as the lid for the enclosure, keeping it snug and secure. If you are not using a rack, please make sure you buy the tubs with a locking lid. You can also modify the lid so the snake won’t escape.
Ventilation
Ventilation is an important aspect of creating a habitat. Without proper ventilation, diseases such as scale rot and respiratory infections are more likely. Most keepers simply put holes in the side using a soldering iron, although a drill with a twist bit can be made to work too.
There are many patterns in which holes can be made. One technique is to cluster many holes on one end, and space them out on the other. This helps create a heat and humidity gradient as more heat and water escapes from the end with many holes, cooling and drying that end off.
The pattern will look somewhat like this:
There are many patterns in which holes can be made. One technique is to cluster many holes on one end, and space them out on the other. This helps create a heat and humidity gradient as more heat and water escapes from the end with many holes, cooling and drying that end off.
The pattern will look somewhat like this:
Tips for drilling:
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Tips for soldering:
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Climbing Structures
As previously mentioned, providing space to climb is an important tool in providing species-appropriate enrichment. Although ball pythons are not arboreal, they are recorded to climb, therefore having climbing structures can be beneficial for teh animal.
- Collect a variety of ball python safe branches such as driftwood, cactus ribs, grape vine, etc, measure the width of the tub, and cut the branches to size.
1.) In order to attach them to the tub, mark the location of your screw (directly in the center of the branch) and mark the spot clearly.
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2.) Slowly drill the screw into the tub at an angle, but only allow the screw to puncture just slightly through to the other side. The aim is to securely position the screw, while also providing a reference of where to place the branch.
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Substrate
There are many options for substrate, so keepers must consider their individual weather and climate and tub size. Some substrates are better suited for dry places, while others are more appropriate from humid regions. To find out which substrate is suitable for you, please visit "Choosing Substrate."
Furnishings
Furnishings are very important ensuring a snake's comfort.
Hides:
Water Bowl:
Clutter:
Hides:
- Ball pythons require at least 2 hides that are snug fitting. This species is thigmotaxic, meaning they feel secure when they are wedged into a small space that squeezes them on all sides- front, back, left, right, top and bottom. Hides should cover the entire snake, so they are not visible. Heavier hides are preferred by ball pythons. Premade or simple hides may be purchased, or you can learn to make your own.
Water Bowl:
- Choose a water bowl that the snake can fit its entire body in. In the case the habitat's humidity drops too low or temperatures rise too high, a large bowl will allow for soaking behavior. A larger bowl will also increase the humidity.
- Water bowls that are hollow underneath can be modified to become a second, space saving hide.
Clutter:
- Ball pythons are a shy species that prefer to remain hidden. Because of this they require visual, permeable barriers, in other words the space in the enclosure should appear clutters, but also allow the snake to pass through. Tunnels, fake vines and other plants, and other decor are great options for clutter that is also aesthetically pleasing. These can be purchased online as reptile or aquarium safe plants. Some have had success with craft plants.