Ball pythons are some of the easiest snakes to own. They make a great first pet for reptile enthusiasts, and you can find them in a variety of colors, also known as morphs. While ball pythons are easy to tend, there are still a few things you'll need to know in order to be a good ball python owner. Here are four tips that will help you successfully keep a ball python as a pet:

1. Fit your ball python environment with a good lock.

Ball pythons will need a place to live. Most owners use glass terrariums to house their ball pythons. Terrariums can be fitted with screen-covered lids that will allow airflow while keeping your snake safely contained. Snakes are tricky, and they're good at fitting through tight spaces. Prevent your ball python from escaping by fitting its terrarium with a good lock. You can use a combination lock or a padlock with a key, whichever option you prefer.

2. Provide warm and cool areas for your ball python to relax.

Ball pythons need sufficient space for optimal comfort. Like all snakes, ball pythons are cold-blooded, which means they rely on their surroundings to keep their bodies at safe temperatures. Heat lamps will offer warmth to your ball python. However, ball pythons can overheat, so they need a cool place to retreat if their heating lamp gets too hot. Create a warming spot and a cool, shady spot inside your snake's habitat. Provide water for your snake to drink and bathe in, as well.

3. Feed your ball python the correct food.

Ball pythons are obligate carnivores, which means they rely on meat to survive. Like most pet snakes, ball pythons can thrive on small rodents. It's important to feed your ball python the correct size of rodent for their age. Small ball pythons should be fed very young mice, often called pinkies. Older, larger ball pythons can handle larger meals. A rodent that is too large can harm your snake's digestive tract, so it's important to select your python's food carefully. Some snakes will happily eat dead mice that have been frozen and thawed, while other snakes will only eat live prey.

4. Let your ball python settle into its new habitat.

Like all animals, ball pythons can be initially disturbed by new surroundings. When you first bring your ball python home, give it about a week to settle into its new habitat. Avoid handling your snake during this time. There will be plenty of time to pet and hold your snake in the future.

For more information about ball pythons for sale, contact a local pet store.