Essential Supplies
Here is a list of items that will help ensure you have the right equipment to keep your new reptile healthy and happy. Everything can be found on Amazon.
1) Thermostat
BN-LINK Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Controller for Seed Germination, Reptiles and Brewing Breeding Incubation Greenhouse, 40-108°F, 8.3A 1000W ETL Listed
2) Under The Tank Heater also called a Heat Mat
Zoomed Reptitherm Undertank Heater 10-20 Gallon 8 watt 6X8 for the hatchling enclosure
Zoo Med ReptiTherm Under Tank Heater, Medium 30-40 Gallon 16 watt 12x8 for the adult enclosure
3) Hide Box
Reptile Hide Box Feel Secure and Safe Gecko Hide Durable Material Easy to Clean Snake Hide Box.
Reptile Hide Box come in multiple sizes:
Small for the Hatchling Enclosure
Medium for the Adult Enclosure
4) Water Bowl
Ethical 4.75-Inch Stoneware Crock Dog Dish (6115)
5) Temp Gun
Etekcity Infrared Thermometer Upgrade 774, Heat Temperature Temp Gun for Cooking, Laser IR Surface Tool for Pizza, Griddle, Grill, HVAC, Engine, Accessories, -58°F to 842°F, Yellow
If You Choose a Tank Setup Adding The Following Will Help Your Ball Python Thrive:
6) Background
Some type of Aquarium backing to cover 3 sides of the tank. This will help your snake feel less exposed. You can uses something as simple as paper to Reptile Habitat, Terrarium Background. Many foam backgrounds are available and can aid in insulating your tank.
7) Ceramic Heat Emitter
A ceramic heat emitter will heat the air in the tank and keep your snake nice and warm without any light. The ball python is a shy, nocturnal snake that will be stressed by bright light. You will need to select the correct wattage to bring your tank's temperature to 78-82 degrees on the cool side and 89-91 degrees on the warm side. The open lid and the fact that glass does not hold heat makes a ceramic heat emitter a must.
8) Dome also called a Lamp to hold the Ceramic Heat Emitter
Fluker's Repta-Clamp Lamp with Switch for Reptiles ,Black, 8.5-Inches is a great choice for a heat emitter dome or lamp. You want to select a dome with a ceramic socket to withstand the heat without melting. You also want a dome rated for whatever wattage your heat emitter requires. This will ensure the dome and the wire are built sturdy enough to handle the intense heat.
9) Coconut chunk substrate
Coconut chunk substrate will be necessary to help maintain the proper 60% humidity required by your ball python. You will want to add a deep layer of 2-3 inches. The substrate should be dry on top but damp just under the top layer. You don't want the substrate wet it will mold. A wet substrate will also be harmful to your ball python. There are a number of good quality coconut substrates including Reptichip and Coco Blocks.