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Housing the Ball Python
Ball pythons are not terribly active snakes, so they do not require a enormous enclosure. For adults an enclosure measuring 36" x 18" x 24" should be adequate. For babies, a small 10 gallon aquarium will be sufficient. Ball pythons are expert escape artist and will find any opening it can and move anything blocking it way. It is best to secure the cover of an aquarium so that the snake cannot escape. There are many snake enclosures on the market today that are escape proof as long as you have the door latched. Substrate should cover the entire bottom of the enclosure, this can be something as simple as paper towels for hatchlings to newspaper for adults. DO NOT use cedar! The oils released from cedar are toxic to reptiles and amphibians. It is recommended to use Aspen from your local pet center or Cypress mulch, which can be found at your local Home Depot or Lowe's. If you choose the cypress, be sure to bake it in the over at 175 degrees for about 20 minutes to ensure all little critters that might have found their way into it are killed.
Another necessity is a hide box. This can be a cardboard box with an opening cut out of the side, or a plastic container with the same type of hole cut in the side. These can also be bought at your local pet center. To get a better idea on the furnishings for your cage click HERE. A water dish should be placed in a position in the cage that prevents it from being tipped over. You can use a metal dog bowl that is wider at the bottom than at the top, this will prevent your snake from tipping it over. Make sure there is fresh water provided at all times.