If you’re new to the world of reptiles, choosing the right snake can feel overwhelming. The banana ball python is an excellent choice for beginners. Known for its gentle temperament, manageable size, and beautiful appearance, it’s a perfect option for first-time pet owners.
This is going to be the discussion in this blog – why this snake is a good pet for newcomers, how to take care of it, and what to know before bringing one home.
Why This Snake is Great for Beginners
It is one of the popular ball python morphs known for their bright shades of yellow and orange, but there are even more valid reasons why the banana snake is ideal for those taking their first few steps with reptiles.
1. Affectionate and placid nature
The best reasons why people choose this snake are because of its non-aggressive and friendly nature. Many of the reptiles can be aggressive, but it is not so. Moreover, it is easy to handle, making it an ideal snake for first-time snake owners who require a snake that is tame and tolerant of frequent human contact.
2. It is small and easy to manage
Size does matter when choosing the pet snake. While several species grow big and huge, this particular one is relatively small-sized-the average length between 3-5 feet in length. It also remains relatively small, easy to handle, and has much less space requirement for keeping it. Great choice for new owners who can’t handle a big beast!
Basic Care Tips
This snake is relatively easy to maintain, and it is perhaps that’s the reason most of them go for keeping these reptiles as pets, especially by beginners. Here are a few basics on maintaining such a species:
1. Habitat Conditions
In order to look after such an animal perfectly, one would need a perfect habitat as follows.
- Tank Size: A young snake may comfortably stay within a 20-gallon tank; however, for grown snakes, the size can be raised up to a 30-40-gallon tank.
- Bedding: Aspen chips or coconut husk can be used for the floor of the tank. It’s easy to clean, and your snake will have a very comfy spot.
- Temperature: Temperature gradient should be provided inside the tank. About 88-92°F at one end and 75-80°F at the other end so that your pet can have temperature regulation as needed.
- Humidity: Try to keep it about 50-60% to help your snake shed properly and stay healthy.
2. Feeding Your Snake
This species of python is a constrictor. It feeds on rodents. The most common rodents it feeds on are mice or rats. This is a quick guide on feeding:
- Baby Snakes: Feed your snake once a week with small mice.
- Adults: Once the snake grows, it will need bigger prey, such as adult rats.
- Feeding Schedule: The snake does not need to be fed every day. Once every 7-10 days is enough.
3. Handling Tips
Although this snake is generally friendly, there are some handling tips to keep it comfortable:
- Gentle Movements: Slowly approach, and make no sudden movements. It reduces stress on your snake.
- Limit Handling Time: Start with short handling times, about 10-15 minutes, and lengthen the time as your snake gets accustomed to you.
Why It’s a Great Choice for New Owners
This is one of the favorite snakes in the reptile community, and here’s why:
1. Low Maintenance
This species is relatively easy to take care of compared to other types of snakes. After the habitat has been set up properly, it doesn’t need much attention. It is one of those low-maintenance pets that will suit anyone who leads a busy life but still wants to have a snake.
2. Unique and Attractive
Its main attraction is its physical appearance. With bright yellow and orange, this morph ranks amongst the most beautiful morphs for the ball python species. Watching a snake like this will get your attention because of its grace in movement around an enclosure.
Conclusion:
This is an excellent species for anyone just beginning to be acquainted with reptiles. It’s harmless and quite easy to look after, nor does it require much space. There is everything in this snake-beautiful, manageable, or low-maintenance-all the criteria are met for the chosen pet.
If you want to know how to set up the perfect environment for your new pet, check out our post on Creating the Perfect Ball Python Habitat for New Owners for more tips on creating a snake-friendly home.
