DO NOT Get A Pet Ball Python! | 3 Reasons Why Ball Pythons Are Not Good For Beginners

Ball pythons are often considered the best pet snake for beginner reptile keepers. But what if I told you there are three main reasons why Ball Pythons are actually intermediate snakes. Let's talk about why Royal Pythons are not for novice reptile keepers.
If you liked this video please hit subscribe.
New videos every Monday and Thursday.
Become a Patron for $1 / wickenswicked. .
Need a wicked PVC enclosure? www.reptilekage...
Get free door handles when you use code WWR at checkout
Need reptile grub? Use Code WWR at checkout for 10% off your order! bit.ly/358yCZA
Chat with us on Discord / discord
Want to send us something?
Adam Wickens
221 Glendale Ave
PO Box 25037 Pen Centre
St. Catharines ON
L2T 4C4
Canada
WEBSITE► www.wickenswic...
EMAIL► [e-mail]
FACEBOOK► / wickenswickedreptiles
INSTAGRAM► / wickenswickedreptiles
Equipment
kit.co/Wickens...
Smart Plugs amzn.to/3lnJmIy
Thermostat amzn.to/2xTKn8b
Thermometer/ Hygrometer amzn.to/3avIhZI
Enclosure Lights amzn.to/2S0PtX0
Camera amzn.to/2yCOHc2
B Roll Lens amzn.to/3aDi5wl
Microphone amzn.to/2KpeoQ6
Mic Stand amzn.to/2VT6zHv
Drone amzn.to/2S254Wo
UVB Light amzn.to/32aob6C

[@clydeballthepython]

As a ball python, I am offended!

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

COVER YOUR EARS!

[@dudu.no1]

@@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845 he can't because they don't exist

[@slipperysam764]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGXUqI2IpJJ-rZY Rat snake in striking position..

[@emabarlic3427]

@@dudu.no1 they do have earholes, they are just covered with skin

[@dudu.no1]

@@emabarlic3427 but not ears, de pricaj nas jezik da te svi razume 😂

[@mioutdoors426]

I think ball pythons are a good first snake for a committed beginner.

[@thepigeonsofthepacificnort2268]

Exactly, like, someone who’s had pet reptiles before but not necessarily a snake

[@Butternut10]

I'm getting a ball python in 30 minutes should I cancel But I still want it

[@thepigeonsofthepacificnort2268]

yeah its me well you probably already have it, but I’d say not to cancel anyway because as long as you’re committed to your snake, you should be able to take care of it

[@Butternut10]

@@thepigeonsofthepacificnort2268 I got the snake he is the most precious thing in this whole wide world

[@ivanwhite3762]

@@Butternut10 nice bro! i’m most likely gonna get one w my next paycheck, did you go through an online source or a local petstore?

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

You're totally right, we should all get green anacondas...

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

100% and keep them in a ten gallon

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

@@WickensWickedReptiles No water whatsoever with some aspen shavings for bedding

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

@@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845 also feed it cat food and lunch meat

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

@@WickensWickedReptiles Thanks for the suggestions, will do.

[@Rebelgirl-kv6bd]

These comments are top notch 😂

[@julieaime4594]

Ball pythons are victims of their own hardiness. “They can live in a 20 gallon on news paper with a heat mat their whole lives.” Yes, they CAN but they should NOT.

[@nikolaus2688]

Well said.

[@SinWeissfell]

"You spent so much time thinking about whether you could that you didn't think about whether you should"

[@keermit198]

bruh i hate it when ppl go off of what they CAN live off of instead of what they should

[@ceecraft1362]

When I hear people say things like this (usually about betta fish) I point out that a human being CAN live in a bathroom their whole life so long as there's food and water.

[@SinWeissfell]

@@ceecraft1362 Bettas arre in much the same camp as Balls. "I keep mine in a fish bowl, that's enough space, right?"

[@thelizardlounge4503]

This video made me want to get a Ball Python more. 10/10 great clickbait

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hahaha thanks

[@fidgettoys5724]

Yes click bait that’s the word to describe it

[@MarkThe_Nerd]

My first snake being a pet ball python: 👀

[@schrosserpentsbu7873]

Same…

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hahaha woops

[@Rebelgirl-kv6bd]

Same!! She's doing absolutely amazing though 😍

[@kagamine_rin0294]

Buy the snake you want, idk why people make it sound like everyone should buy a cornsnake if that's not even the animal they wanted since "beginner pets" don't really exist. Ball pythons have some complications but it's totally worth it in the end. Good luck!

[@silentscales8631]

@@kagamine_rin0294 mmmm Nope, Get The Pet You Can House Lmao, Cant Get an Anaconda, Monitor or Any Reptile You Cant Keep Depending On were you Live. Carewise, Yeah, I Guess You Can Learn From the Mistakes you Make, But You Cant Fix Really Fix The Place you are Living In... If You Have the Space than Yeah U are Kinda Right

[@aahrow]

Me: a dainty, five foot fourteen year old. 👁👄👁 You did not have to come for me like this

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hahhaha! Bro, I was 4'10 90lbs at 14, I feelye

[@Lorscuba_steve]

Me: 6'0 14 year old that weighs less than some burmese pythons 👁️👄👁️

[@LShaver947]

@@Lorscuba_steve burmese python can weigh 200 lbs 😂

[@ronhubkajr.23]

Haha I’m 4’11 and almost 15

[@jeannettefrank5127]

Me who is a 110 pound 14 year old girl😬😅

[@youtubedoge3997]

Me, who just got a Ball Python as my first snake 2 days ago: 👁👄👁

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hahaha

[@lexiet3906]

Few weeks ago for me 😎

[@lilblue315]

Meeeee toooo 😳😳😳😳🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@joniarroyo3318]

I have one

[@mohmedabdul-wahid6105]

I’ve only had one snake...a ball python. For the past 6 years and I love him. 💯 his name is Ox.

[@Razgriz977]

I picked a ball python (banana!) for my first reptile and he has been nothing but a dream. 0 issues and 0 regrets getting him.

[@haleighr1943]

i read online your not supposed to touch them everyday. is that true? are they friendly?

[@anyabutkovich3158]

@@haleighr1943 Depends on the individual, but they are mostly peaceful and friendly. You shouldn't handle *every*day because it can be stressful and if they have just eaten it could cause issues. However, handling can be a good way to socialize.

[@haleighr1943]

@@anyabutkovich3158 okay thank you! do you have any advice?

[@anyabutkovich3158]

@@haleighr1943 Research several sites and care guides and make sure you are ready. Several sites and care guides and make sure you are looking at reputable sources. Have the budget and be prepared. And a thermostat is a must.

[@haleighr1943]

@@anyabutkovich3158 okay! what the do you think the price range is?

[@jollygiantman]

I have a ball Python and he’s literally the easiest pet I’ve ever had to care for. I think they are great beginner snakes.

[@linaulnes8821]

Hwnr you have horses and dogs a ball pyton seems easy care, but might be its much more stres to look after then it looks like. Thats what I am worried about, that it looks easy but is not 😅

[@Ivan_Imperator]

@@linaulnes8821 I own three birds, a cockatiel, and two parakeets, I also have a ferret, three dogs and two cats. I have to say the ball phyton is still really easy to take care of even when I juggle through the other pets, yes it makes it harder but it’s still a really easy reptile to take care of regardless.

[@dcard228]

@@bennysum8252 it's very easy to break trust with any snake because they're so hyper aware of the fact that every other living thing is a potential threat to them

[@SplicedSerpents]

Ball pythons are awesome. Big enough to be impressive, but small enough to manage plus almost unlimited patterns/colours.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

couldn't have said it better myself

[@tjbrooks1390]

@@WickensWickedReptiles you couldn’t have said it at all 🤣🤣🤣 you’ve already said the complete opposite like did you Forget the title of the video

[@a.e.fishing843]

@@tjbrooks1390 he loves ball pythons. He just said they are not for the newbies.

[@sethwatkins5586]

@@WickensWickedReptiles what size enclosure can you keep a male?

[@Jhud69]

Also adorable little faces

[@abbyh.3259]

I like what you said about them needing space to stretch out. That really bugged me when I read up on their habitat size recommendations. Pretty much every critter I’ve ever met likes being able to stretch out occasionally. I agree they need a space to accommodate that

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

well said

[@ernesthamm1813]

"a dainty 14-year-old boy..." cut to thousands of 14-year-olds running to the pet store to prove they're not "dainty" lol!

[@slipperysam764]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGXUqI2IpJJ-rZY Rat snake in striking position..

[@marquisethomas5611]

Cut again to a kid rolling around with a bp on his neck 😂, these damn things are powerful

[@JO-ni1xg]

I unexpectedly took over the care of a baby bp, afraid of snakes and knowing nothing. I've gotten lots of info and all of it directly conflicts so I try to watch her behavior and go from there. She's incredibly docile. She LOVES to eat, favoring frozen/thawed over live. Her name is Valentine so feeding day is called Valentine's day. And yes, I am in love now.

[@oceanelf2512]

A receptionist and friend at work told me about someone she knows who had a ball python on a farm. This snake got out of his enclosure and would actively seek out his owner, and wrap himself around her when he found her. She also shared her lollypops with him. Both astonish me.

[@jameshughey5747]

Biggest pet peeve with my boy steve...his food has to be heated just perfectly or he won't touch it.

[@eviejohnson7239]

i love his name aw “my boy, steve” so cute

[@stingray6154]

Mine too!! Lol

[@thediligentdungbeetle8116]

My cat will only eat it his food has treats on the top and biscuits and he will only sleep of you make the bed for him right it's a real pain

[@beanqueen1243]

Aww, I have a leopard gecko named Steve. I love giving animals people names.

[@itssassysarah]

adam: you won’t have a problem unwrapping a corn snake my corn snake: *challenge accepted*

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hahahahaa

[@enyagough31]

Me to my ball python in room: don't listen to him, you are incredible ❤

[@mandyjolie6549]

My first snake was a ball python and I fell in love. The hardest thing was getting her enclosure perfect and from there I knew what I needed to do once I decided to get more. I now have 3 and it’s just second nature now. I did weeks of research before committing to it and I’m glad I did cause it helped a whole lot. I’ve also learned that you absolutely can not trust pet stores when they tell you things. Please buy from a reputable breeder.

[@natedawg1007]

Would you say it’s easy to own a snake?

[@maxnico7370]

@@natedawg1007 yes

[@maxnico7370]

Underground reptiles.

[@cristianespinal9917]

I second everything you just said. I just got mine recently. Do your research, set up your enclosure first and get it dialed in, and buy from a reputable breeder instead of a store. If you want to patronize your local reptile store, buy feeders and accessories from them. Get the snake from a breeder.

[@Sam-yo4my]

@@maxnico7370 underground reptiles is notorious for selling mass amounts of sick and disabled animals. they are no better than a petco

[@avawarner4148]

Me looking over at my picky, scaredy-cat bp: Yeah that checks out

[@slipperysam764]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGXUqI2IpJJ-rZY Rat snake in striking position..

[@larryfleming7295]

Yeah when I put an alive mouse in the tub and he jumped back, I thought to myself OH NO !! This is not good, how can you survive when your scared of your food ? But after 30 minutes or so he got over his fear and made me a very proud Father. 🥲

[@TheLizardKing140]

I was chilling with my corn snake watching this

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

Hahahah what nice colubrids.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

NICE!

[@iv3nuz973]

same here, she’s a cutie.

[@ashleyblack9109]

The thumbnail was very misleading and broke my heart for a minute. I recently got my hands on a Mocha, fire, and pastel and out of any animal I’ve ever been blessed with he is an angel.

[@Fishmilk-_-]

Mine eats perfectly fine tbh, haven’t had any problems *knocks on wood*

[@sertank735]

All my babies eat like champs.

[@orangejuicejuggernaut7474]

mine too

[@slipperysam764]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGXUqI2IpJJ-rZY Rat snake in striking position..

[@TheEmuofEnnui]

Mine is a foodie. We had to put him on a diet cause he's such a good eater 😂

[@muymal6201]

Random but...quick reminder that we all are saved through Jesus' death. Through Him we escape the damnation we deserve. God loved us so deeply that He sent His own son to experience hell so that we don't have to. I know that alot of you don't want to hear any of this but don't forget that the love found in God will never be found anywhere else. He cares for you, no matter who you are and what you've done.

[@ChaoticNeutralElf]

Thank you for this video! My first snakes were BPs and I was very determined, but a lot of people aren't as committed as I was and most people didn't spend over a year researching. You took all the words right out of my mouth.

[@bearbear-hf7cn]

I’ve never had a snake but really want a ball python because of how Handleable it is and for because it isn’t super fast

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

wicked

[@charlotted3432]

Tell that to my banana pastel, I'm sure he spends his spare time racing! 😂😂

[@bearbear-hf7cn]

@@charlotted3432 lol. That’s about as rare as it never skipping a meal

[@trinity9023]

That snake just dangling as you speak is really getting me 😭

[@octo448]

I'm still strongly considering getting a ball python as my first snake, but it's not as if anything that you said was wrong. All the videos I've watched about Ball Pythons have included these concerns (temperature and humidity, finicky feeding habits, and adult size) but to me, those aren't large enough concerns to steer me away from getting one. I know that I want a larger snake that tends to have less 'dart-like' behavior, and I also know I'm not very interested in a lizard (at least, at first) or a gecko. That really just leaves a few good choices for beginners, and ball pythons are by far the best choice among them IMO. Any animal is going to come with a learning curve and will need to be adjusted to, but for me, the pros of having a snake I can handle and that is pretty and active around the same times I am (Evening and morning person, here) is very important to me. TLDR- I don't think a snake not being "the easiest possible snake" makes them a bad beginner pet, but everything in this video is factual so I can agree with that. Not the title though.

[@staniclol7063]

So did you end up getting a ball python?

[@octo448]

@@staniclol7063 I didn't, yet. Still what I want, but I need to make sure I am financially in a place to take care of one. Mostly, aside from the usual costs, I need a generator. I live in a place where I can't rely on the power to stay on in the cold. I can just put on another set of clothes or a blanket, but if I have I snake I need to make sure it stays warm enough in it's enclosure. So all the usual costs for a snake... plus a small electric generator. It's so pricey! I'm still getting a ball python though... eventually. :D

[@Ally-uh3bn]

Yeah with any animal there are those same concerns

[@eeeeee8829]

@@octo448 good on you for looking into the proper care for a snake, most people just get one after barely a week of research so it’s nice to see somebody taking things into consideration :)

[@urakirby5]

Indefinitely would suggest a ball python. I keep mine in a very large clear storage bin, which isn't as see through as glass but is much better for humidity thanks to the lid not being mesh and lighter in weight so easier to clean. And I've never had humidity issues. I actually have a humid hide big enough to fit a water dish inside which even more reduces the need to mist very often

[@alanalynnl.3283]

unwrapping my kingsnake from my chair is so much easier then my ball python but my ball pythons CANNOT hold onto my arm for there life

[@yoonmikim5663]

One of mine does just fine. But then she's a big girl.

[@michaelg1237]

My ball got down into my mechanical couch. That was a nightmare to unwrap her from

[@TheChillimouse]

To be honest as a corn snake person. I just have corn snakes, because I just love how they are. They can be feisty if not handled but not too crazy. They bite and it is easy to teach them not to. But if you react to their biting they learn quickly. Also, many corns get dumped because they are bought as a beginner snake and then people get tired of them. So can we get over the idea of beginner snakes. and have people do their research and know what they are getting into before they get into them.

[@Breviparopus]

More than two of the same thing is kind of boring in my opinion

[@Lady_Ryl]

5'2" tall, nobody ever commented about me growing over summer either. lol

[@slipperysam764]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGXUqI2IpJJ-rZY Rat snake in striking position..

[@easprotsandthots1693]

“nuber three” lol love ya channel tho

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hahaha woooops

[@sertank735]

I’m grateful that I live in the south, where the humidity is high. I never thought I would say that.

[@cherylsgadgetgalaxy]

I bought my first ball python about a month or two ago. Shes just a baby and shes absolutely sweet. She eats frozen/thawed and we've never had issues. I also find the tank care to be quite easy.

[@Ally-uh3bn]

Yeah you’ve only had them for a month are you dumb? You think just because they eat for one month they will eat forever ?

[@alanalynnl.3283]

11:44 me during online school struggling to do basic math

[@varanidguy]

Humid hides are the best for snakes and some lizard species. I'm kind of frustrated that more people don't use or talk about them. Even my Children's python has one that he will use regularly, and they're generally not thought about when needing one. Reptiles naturally like to seek out micro climates, even ones from arid areas.

[@sosoblackfeather6504]

I agree!

[@Toolazytothinkofagoodhandle]

Is there a particular brand/model you would recommend? My boy has a cave that I place damp sphagnum moss in to humidify but I want to get him something more reliable/low maintenance

[@varanidguy]

@@Toolazytothinkofagoodhandle it's not pretty but tupperware or plastic containers with a hole cut in them filled with damp moss. I haven't seen any commercial ones that perform even as good as that, let alone better.

[@jasondavis7408]

​@i_l_i4282 it's been a few months but I use the zilla rock lair for my humid hide for my leopard gecko. They're super dark and enclosed and come in multiple sizes for different species. And I only water it every few days too.

[@nataliaprado2337]

100% agree. Their care is a bit more complicated then people may realize at first. Great video!

[@jamesfrederick.]

I think if you really want a ball python then you should get one because if it’s the difference between just settling on a corn snake, or getting the snake you want I’d get the ball python.

[@nataliaprado2337]

As long as you do your research and are prepared and committed to the animal you bring home, get whatever you want. The problem is impulse buyers and many get into the hobby that way. Many think PB are "easy", like beardies, and the animal suffers for it. So I think it's important to get it out there that they are not as easy/beginner as the unintiated think. Also, I have a corn snake and she is the best.

[@jacobmcvay123]

@@nataliaprado2337 respectively, all pythons I’ve ever seen are easier to care for than a Bearded. Their enclosures are so temperamental. Snakes are tanks comparatively.

[@jakegentile2365]

I would love to see a video that talks about the best Ball Python alternative snakes for beginner keepers. Right now I’m struggling to decide between a BP, Spotted Python, Rosy Boa, and Dumeril’s Boa.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

greta idea, I have lots of dumerils content on here

[@vickielouisefit]

Definitely really agree! I absolutely adore my BP, she was my first snake but not my first reptile, and we always had plenty of snakes growing up. I've been seriously lucky in that she's never missed a feed yet and she's 9 months old now 🤣

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

That is awesome!

[@racheldell7334]

Clicked on this so quickly. I love your videos!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Yay! Thank you!

[@mandiejean1994]

Proper husbandry and research should be top priority when getting any reptile. Know what you are getting into size wise, care wise, time wise, cost wise etc.... I have no regrets on my reptile collection but they can be like a second job. Also most of the time I do my own vetting with minor issues because most vets aren't very experienced with reptiles where I live not to mention the cost of vet visits when you do finally find someone experienced enough. Planning is a good idea such as keeping extra food on hand, UVB bulbs, heat mats etc... on hand too. You never know what can happen. Also some emergency heat packs are great too in case of power outages in colder weather. I could continue this list a lot further but I'm proving a point that most people don't think about these things. It's easy to get roped in by a reptile's beauty or roped into thinking they are easy to care for only to find out you thought wrong. Also some major pet retailers don't even give you correct husbandry information for reptiles. So I'd suggest talking with a breeder and buying from there. Then you know where the reptile came from, what it's feeding regimen is, it's care requirements etc...

[@phffffbt]

Great Vid! I was thinking of getting a Ball Python and this is super helpful. I've had a Corn Snake and a Bearded Dragon, but I was young and they were mostly cared for by my dad.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Glad I could help!

[@springybun3655]

I keep seeing this whole ball python being a beginner vs being an intermediate snake *I'm so confused lmao*

[@khmerViper]

I have had Royal pythons A long time ago. Back when the morph’s trends where starting! Now I’m getting back in to the snake craze again! And inspiring my son! He’s excited! He’s born the year of the snake. But as a beginner snake Hadley like my 9 year old son. I think we will do good. He already has a name for the snake. We don’t even have yet. Daddy has to get everything all over again! He’s inspired me again! And maybe start breading… I enjoy your videos thanks! 😎👍🏼🙏🏼

[@MoinSpongii]

I got a ball python this week, and I fell so in love with this species. I now I am no expert but I am committed to give her the best home I can provide! I informed me for over a year now on how to keep a snake and I think I am going to do a good job to provide her with all she needs. :)

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

wic kd!

[@Galian6686]

That banana morph really has me thinking about BPs again.

[@vickielouisefit]

Absolutely get a banana, I adore mine 😍

[@professorxbeeaats937]

Got a banana pastel after wanting one forever and so worth it she is stunning

[@dustinman8714]

#1 is why I ended up geting a hypo hog as my first snake instead of a ball python. Did not want to deal with 6 month hunger strikes lol

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

nice!

[@NotReallyAya.]

Just got my baby in Aug. i love him SOO. he was kinda hard to get to eat. but Just Blow Dry thaat Mouse and It would be perfect.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

that's awesome!

[@ajtheskink4072]

I got mine in August as well. Aren’t they adorable ☺️

[@dreamdoginthemaking8679]

@@ajtheskink4072 What morph?

[@ajtheskink4072]

@@dreamdoginthemaking8679 I rescued him. He’s a normal. What about yours?

[@dreamdoginthemaking8679]

@@ajtheskink4072 I currently have no pets but i want a piebald ball python

[@xx_slimshady_xx4445]

I totally agree, ball pythons are great pets but sometimes it is better to just get a cornsnake

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

totally agree

[@freemcbilly3617]

Or a spotted python!

[@BigFry9591]

Or, just do research, and get the snake you want.

[@itzjdub282]

Yep my Cornsnake is zero maintenance

[@ChrisHardwickanimaladventures]

Bobby is watching this. 🤣

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Now here’s a guy who REALLY thinks ball pythons suck 🤣🤣🤣

[@okavara3833]

Nice to see you here, I’m a fan

[@alexiscooper6026]

I got a ball python for my first snake, and it has been awesome! He is such a great eater and eats the frozen thawed with no problem...and he is super sweet, never tried to bite anyone. My 10 year old son handles him with no problem, he loves him so much. Never had an issue. I have a huge enclosure that we got for free from a local breeder and hes so happy in there. We have quite a few pets and my ball python is our easiest pet to take care of. We monitor the temp and humidity with a little monitor thing that is in the enclosure so we just keep watch and adjust as needed, it's pretty easy. He is in his own small room so it's easy to control the heat. I keep a spray bottle on top of the enclosure so that whenever we walk in the room we can just spray it quickly. Never had any shedding issues because we just monitor him. Honestly I am so happy I got him from the pet store because he was so tiny and not well taken care of. I am glad he got a good home. I definitely recommend them for beginners!

[@ragingpanda3957]

If you still reply to a video this old I’d like to know if a 50 gallon tank is big enough for a 3 month old ball python because I have it from a past reptile and why buy a new one if I already have that for now until it grows more if not would it have to be 120 gallon because I’ve been told if it’s too big and the snake is still small it can make the snake stressed and feel vulnerable

[@boneboi_amir5235]

So I have a baby ball python already and I’m a beginner. It’s in a 10 gallon tank with 2 hides on each side, with a heat mat, heat lamp, and a couple of plants and some wood for it to climb on to, and a water dish. Do u guys think I should upgrade to a 30 gallon tank or a 20 gallon when it outgrows the enclosure?

[@TheLizardKing140]

I plan on having like a 5-6. Ft long 1-3 high enclosure the bp i plan on getting is a full grown male I think he's like 4-5 ft Is that big enough?

[@DrDank43298]

Yes thats a great size

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

Perfect size he would love it!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

that would be amazing

[@skirk248]

I'm a fan of the enclosure being longer than the animal so yes. It's amazing

[@kesshami]

To me for any pet it is about commitment. Are you truly committed to giving this animal the best life you can and do the research and are you willing to change if your initial setup or expectations don’t work the way you want it to for the best option for your snake? Are you up to making sure it stays healthy, etc? Are you in it for the long haul regardless of any inconvenience to you? Or will you drop it after the novelty wears off or when times get rough? If the answer is no to any question but the last one, maybe rethink yourself

[@sharonawaldschmidt3622]

Glad you did this video, I have a baby BP, classic type. I know I have to upgrade him, my little stinker is 18 inches now. I was looking for advice on what size tank to upgrade too. Now I know! This isn’t my first BP, my last was a dream, easiest BP ever, no feeding strikes, switched from live mice to FT rats in 1 night. He came to me in a tank now that I think of it was probably too small. Hate that I had to give up Dratini after my car accident. So when I recovered enough to get snakes again, I knew I wanted another BP. S’mores is nothing like Dratini. The humidity is my biggest struggle with keeping him here in Phoenix Arizona too. He’ll be upgrading to a PVC tank soon and my cornsnake will get then BP’s old tank as his upgrade. S’mores does like heights too, I always him him up in the highest point in his tank being an ambush predator. So far no hunger strikes but he’s also only 5 months old. 30% humidity in Arizona, what is it raining? LOL.

[@timappleseed4298]

I have a baby corn snake but she is very jittery, though I have addressed the fact that she is not tamed. But I know that they are not the calmest snakes they love moving. That’s the only deal breaker for me

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

for sure!

[@paulaelisamenacho4882]

I have a ball python and got a lot of my info from him. I’m feeding mine live (I know it’s bad) but that the way he’s been eating. I’m trying to switch him over but so far he hasn’t gotten hurt. I always supervise him just in case but he’s pretty good with eating. He is my first snake and I did a lot of research before getting him. So if you have the knowledge and you know you can handle it I think that a ball pythons are good first pet snakes. When I came across this vid of his I was laughing but great vid!

[@themotions5967]

Reptilinks makes a reptile scent spray, I use it for rescues we get in that don’t have a appetite for frozen it always works. Just makes sure the mouse is warm and not just room temp from thawing and apply some scent spray on the prey items head.

[@funnygaming2672]

feeding live is OK just make sure that the snake strike at it and eat it before leaving that it... ;)

[@thewillliams6555]

I think ball pythons are good for committed people, not just 1 day of research, but a few months, also I love your channel, I was the one that told you to say hi on the stream. Comment hi, also you too Wicken!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Hello! oh, it's Wickens ;)

[@heddabedda306]

And money! Money and commitment. Money and commitment at a steady rate for 30 years. If someone is questioning whether they can drop $500 on an emergency vet visit to a reptile specialist or for an upgrade to a new enclosure... maybe just hold off until you feel really good about your ability to provide that? Otherwise you’ll someday find yourself in the position of choosing between the welfare of a living being and money you need for something else. Not a good feeling.

[@lonely6924]

Iguanas: Look what they need to mimic a fraction of my power

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hahahhaa!

[@jimquicksilver442]

I was 45 when I finally got my first snake (Cali King). I took into account life span as well. Ball pythons can live for 30 years. I hope I'm in good enough health to look after one when I'm 70-75, but I'm not betting on it. lol Love ball pythons, but for this reason, and the ones you mentioned, not right for me. :-(

[@madeliner1682]

Lots of people don't take that into account, so good for you for being a responsible pet owner... Maybe you could adopt an older one? They're harder to come by than dogs and cats, but might be worth looking into

[@marlothedobermantv6992]

Did you have any problems out of your California king. I heard they are very aggressive.

[@monke622]

@@marlothedobermantv6992 mine was aggressive

[@gnehsse]

You could just give them away when you're done with them, there are a lot of people who would gladly take a well-cared-for, tame, fully grown ball python off your hands :)

[@hvsxkevin3353]

They are great beginner snakes for keepers that know what they are doing before buying and can afford to keep them properly. I’ve had mine for a few months now with zero missed feeds, great sheds every time and great temperament. It’s completely down to keeper commitment.

[@nubzy7725]

Hey I have never owned a snake but would you recommend a cornsnake or ball python

[@hvsxkevin3353]

@@nubzy7725 Both are generally considered as great beginner snakes but I’d say a corn snake would be better suited to someone with no prior experience. They are are a little easier in terms of husbandry and are a lot more active than ball pythons. Make sure to do plenty of research first though, from multiple sources.

[@ukley___]

I have my bp in a 40 gallon but its still pretty young. I intend to get a larger enclosure when it starts growing

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

very cool!

[@teg2007]

I agree but snakes can get scared and refuse to eat if the enclosure is to big

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

welllll no, only if they don't have enough cover

[@devsie11915]

I’m so glad you keep your ball pythons in an enclosure that’s appropriate for their size! I’m keeping my juvenile in a 40 gallon, but I’m going to upgrade her ASAP. I love seeing keepers out there that take good care of their noodles

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

noodles deserve the best enclosures you can afford :)

[@devsie11915]

@@WickensWickedReptiles I agree. I hate to see racks and tiny 20 gal set ups. They should be treated as well as any other pet.

[@amethystpaw3437]

Yeah I bought a 40 gallon tank thinking it would be huge but when I saw him in there I was shocked a bit from how small it is. He's was four months when I got him and I believe he should be good in that sized incloser unlit he's a year old. But it just shocked and appalled me that some people recommend getting a 12 gallon tank like (pardon my language) that's way to fucking small for an incloser for a baby ball python it just crazy how people think that 12 gallons is a appropriate size.

[@ProfessorHerp]

Oh! Adam coming for them balls!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

just like your mother

[@Rebelgirl-kv6bd]

@@WickensWickedReptiles 🤣🤣🤣

[@jessiefranklin9318]

@@WickensWickedReptiles noooo😭😂

[@kcvanderpool]

@@WickensWickedReptiles DAMMMMMMN lol

[@claybarr9457]

Every beginner or first-timer herpetoculturist needs to see this

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

For sure

[@nitroplayz3983]

Him: its not your fought if you get bit Also him: *its your fought*

[@thomask3560]

I got my first pet snake, a locality common boa 2 weeks ago. She’s awesome as a first snake so far!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

wicked

[@nathanberry5828]

Oh damn hitting us with that sexy open collar

[@Liam_Poehland]

My brother has a ball python and he is very calm and fun to take care of but he is quite the escape artist.

[@Sharketti__]

Do you have any milksnake videos?! I just fell in love with your channel and I am a new milksnake owner and would love to hear about the pros, cons, care, and setup!

[@Kami.yato.]

These cons def make sense but aside from size of the tank possibly anyone who’s genuinely passionate about reptiles none of that is a problem. Ball python is my next addition to my family! Such cuties!! Great content!!!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

agreed!

[@joshscritchfield693]

My uncle after getting my ball python said them things get huge he thought they are as big as berms I just laughed!

[@colinjava8447]

Yeah some people associate pythons with giant snakes, but only half a dozen pythons can be considered large.

[@xoNicoletteann]

The reptile expo this past weekend was literally the ball python expo lol. Saw you by the way! :)

[@ameknight8875]

I have one ~250 gallon and a ~265 gallon for both my ball pythons (one I'm still waiting on, the other is about 11 months old). First is 60"x37"x27", second one is 84"x24"x30". My 11 month old absolutely loves her taller tank, always climbing and chilling out near the middle but will sometimes go around the top. I've always been taught the bigger the better, and the fact that she has so much space to roam give me so many options for her to give her a bigger and better bioactive enclosure. However, I'm a bit confused about the humidity. From the impression I've gotten from vets in my area, I was told that humidity should be between 60-80? If anyone can answer that discrepancy, that would be awesome :) Either way, keep up the great work WWR!

[@ellymiles3786]

It’s best to keep humidity around 60-65 when not in shed to ensure your bp won’t get an RI! When in shed 70-75 is ideal for the same reason!

[@cjoys256]

Damn Im jealous of those enclosures Im not an expert about ball pythons by any means but it seems like the best approach is to let them choose humidity. Where they live in the wild its fairly arid but they *choose* to hang out in humid areas. So maybe you could keep the ambient humidity around 50% and then have a humid hide or even just a dedicated section of the enclosure at the higher humidity Also sorry for the necro I just have this plan for a naturalistic ball python setup and I needed to vent it

[@juelz713]

I am struggle to see if a Ball Python should be my next pet snake

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

they can be great but not always

[@hannahthefallenangel788]

@Johnny Utah it really depends on the personality. My guy comes out to climb and stuff. Sometimes he is even out a bit during the morning when I get up. He even comes out of his hide to come see me when I walked past his enclosure

[@andreheise1170]

@Johnny Utah No, they aren't boring. Maybe youself are the boring one for not taking the snake out and let it crawl and explore your room ;-)

[@zrushmeyer]

My Ball Python (Calypso) was my first snake and I can agree 100% with this video. I was able to accommodate her needs easy enough because I've been keeping reptiles most of my life. But for the new reptile owner just getting into the hobby they can be very discouraging if you struggle with humidity, temperatures, and feeding. Great video!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

totally agree

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

How did u get here so-

[@robinlee4263]

Enjoy the information and content of your channel, my ball pythons and I appreciate you!! You just picked up another subscriber! 😁👍👍👍

[@GreasyBelcher]

Never forget working in door to door sales a few years back. I got brought into this tiny townhouse / apartment. The pace had 60 or so huge glass tanks full of snakes. It was freaky as. There was barely any room for the couple living there to move.

[@random_guy5497]

Quick question, would you recommend a western hognose snake as a beginner, or a corn snake over a western hognose.

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

I'm not him of course, but a corn snake would be better because they ate very active and are eating machines, but hognoses ate cute and more handleable so it really depends on your pov, but personally, a corn snake would be a better beginner snake because they are very fascinating colubrids.

[@random_guy5497]

Thank you very much I have been wondering the best beginner because I want a snake myself and I have been hearing hognose are great but are picky eaters.

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

@@random_guy5497 You're welcome.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

depends, both could be good beginners

[@liampetersonsbiggestfan3845]

Oh and also, the, "ate"'s, stand for, "are", sorry about that, my krtboard was a bit wet

[@jdboygood3163]

Is it just me or is there always an ad before number 1 spot 🤣🤣

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

yeah... who would do that... whooo could it be

[@skirk248]

This is the way

[@silonesrubira]

'There is worse things to get bit by." *i look across the room to my Orange Baboon Tarantula, that is sitting next to my Gooty sapphire ornamental tarantula, that is sitting next to my deathstalker scorpion.*

[@brutusinthesin5883]

Your OBT looking at you........

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

nahhhh not into all that, seem slike less than fun to be bitten by

[@silonesrubira]

I’ve had tarantulas on and off for 17 years and never been bit. I was bit by my boa constrictor once about 14 years ago, but that was my fault, I was a kid and couldn’t read its feeding mood. It’s all about safety and learning how to read and care for your individual animal. But of course, these types of pets aren’t for everyone and that is ok. Stick with what you’re comfortable with.

[@silonesrubira]

@@WickensWickedReptiles lol, I didn’t realize who you were when I commented, great channel though, I’m not a big fan of lizards, but I do what a bearded dragon eventually

[@cv8425]

I love my little guy. He’s wrapped around my wrist right now just acting like a bracelet.

[@paigewhitehead2959]

My first snake was a ball python, and now I also have a Florida Kingsnake, but honestly I think my ball python is easier to care for! He’s a lot more sociable and friendly! Not that my Kingsnake isn’t friendly, he’s just very skittish and doesn’t like being handled much lol

[@aparadoxinflux]

Could you do a video on Rankins Dragons? I’ve been torn between getting a beardie or a leopard gecko and coming up higher on the beardie, but the size needs are a concern. I know rankins are basically like mini beardies! Could you do a video talking about them?

[@tdoyr2119]

So when I buy one do I try to feed it as soon as I get it or a while after? Bc I know my local pet stores aren’t the most reputable when it comes to care

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

give it a few days

[@bc_bourbon_cask]

Could you Do a video on recommendation Terrariums and habitat set ups. Currently have a juvenile In a 40 gallon tank, but plan on getting a 6ft enclosure this summer.

[@amandarambeau3877]

Well my brother has 10 ball pythons and he takes really good care of them .... Their beautiful and he has a KZbin channel about them call ... Ball Python Love ... Their awesome animals .

[@jacobmccarty2739]

I love this lmao I got mine as my first reptile, and to say I was unprepared was an understatement. She was a “rescue” from a family friend who just straight up neglected/abused her. I got her with mites, took me 6 months to get her to eat (post treatment) even though my care was what I would consider at this point close to perfect

[@carolineullrich7323]

MINE EATS EVERY TIME!!!! WENT FROM LARGE MICE TO RAT PUPS ( NOT SURE OF THE CORRECT NAME), no issues with shedding once I placed in plastic bin. He likes it there. No issues with temp, nor humidity. Way better then the glsss aquarium. To top it off he/she has the perfect temperament.

[@sporks3256]

Thanks for commenting that a big enough tub, set up properly and cleaned, can be just has good as a large tank.

[@angmaromega3294]

I think ball pythons are wonderful starter pets. If you are actually committed to loving and caring for this animal, there should be no problems.

[@HelloKittylicious99]

Me in Florida: yeah humidity won’t be an issue

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hahahah no doubt

[@tinkeramma]

Me in Utah: researching how2humidity for both animals and humans

[@laurelh1975]

I feel like I must've really lucked out with my lil Tortellini. Have had him five months now, and the only meal he ever refused was the very first one I offered him when I got him. I had left him alone to adjust for about a week, but I guess he was still settling in when I offered the first meal because he would not take it. After that, I tweaked some of my methods, and have had no issues (so far..lol). He's in a 40 for now, but we'll see what the future holds! Perhaps he'll need an upgrade and then I'll be dealing with empty tank syndrome lol. As always, great video. That baby is super cute!

[@kevinthegrizzly5074]

Excellent, excellent video Adam 👍🏾. Your honesty separates you from the jokers on YT. You are the 🇨🇦 G.O.A.T. Would you please do a review on your Kages enclosure please. We're thinking about transitioning our scale babies from tanks. You're review would be deeply appreciated. Take care 🇺🇸🇨🇦.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Absolutely! thanks for the kind words

[@Stian1342]

Back in 2018 when reptiles did become legal to sell in Norway, I diden know if i wanted a ball or a corn, so i did buy both 😂 And now i got 5 snakes 👀 wtf happend.

[@DeluluIsTheSolulu]

I've had ball pythons in the past and one of my females had gone on a hunger strike for one YEAR. I panicked so hard lmao now I have a boa and he's a machine. Never going back to ball pythons again. Boas ftw!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Boas are garbage disposals

[@neilchace1858]

The longest hunger strike I've ever seen is a kenyan Sand Boa going 8 months without eating. One of the two balls I've worked with eats almost every time (gets offered one rat every 3 weeks), the other one probably eats about 50% of the time. The Florida Kingsnake on the other hand eats two mice every week and is still always hungry!

[@tessaerikson6471]

What I do for humidity pour water in the substrate and just mix it around i usally only have to do that once a week.

[@L1ucky]

I’ve been studying and doing research on the ball python i know what to get you taught me the pros and cons i think i got this and if I can’t do it ill get a milk or corn snake instead. Thank you for telling me the pros and cons about the ball python

[@dalldallrose]

I really wanted a ball python for my first snake

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

they are amazing

[@Schiza001]

You’ll be fine with a ball python as your first snake. Just do your research and know what you are getting into. The cons he mentions aren’t bad cons in my opinion at all. You just have to weigh for yourself.