As gentle as a ball python - Where Responsible Reptile Keepers Connect!

Python05 · #1 (**permalink**) 09-11-2007, 05:12 PM

I was wondering if in the future I bought another snake is there one type someone would recomend that would get bigger than a ball python but doesn't eat rabbits? I like the temper of ball pythons so that is the temper I would want for my secound snake as well.

danktat · #2 (**permalink**) 09-11-2007, 05:58 PM

Columbian boas (or common boas) are good to deal with. If you get a male it is concievable to keep it on rats for a lifetime. Should get a good 6 or 7 feet if not fed heavily. Common boas tend to have better attitudes (particularly when babies), and are easier to care for [husbandry wise] than True Bcc or Bca, though they all can become "pet tame" as they get older

. Good luck on whatever you choose. This is an adult male boa (Bcc not Bci but you get the idea

)

Good luck on your search...whatever you choose make sure it is an animal that interests you. That is the only way you will stay motivated to care for it properly and give it all the attention it needs.

mpgt · #3 (**permalink**) 09-11-2007, 06:33 PM

There is so much variance in temperament within a species, I think other factors might be equally, or more important than breed. One thing breed does determine fairly well, is potential size. The larger the snake, the more injury it could cause, with a few exceptions. I think some of a snake's disposition is inherited from one or both of the parents. It might help to buy one from a trusted breeder who can vouch for the parents' disposition. From there, it's up to you to provide the careful handling and husbandry needed for a well adjusted snake. That makes the snake as predictable as possible, but there is always some element of risk.

danktat · #4 (**permalink**) 09-11-2007, 06:36 PM

By the way...I have been bitten by more ball pythons than any other snake (just a note)

BrianV · #5 (**permalink**) 09-11-2007, 08:11 PM

haha really ive never been bit or snapped at by 1 ive also never been bit but snapped at by a baby burmese and a brazillian rainbow boa

angelboa · #6 (**permalink**) 09-11-2007, 09:23 PM

my ball was a pain and would strike at anything trying to enter its cage but my boas have never shown agression

ReptileMan27 · #7 (**permalink**) 09-12-2007, 12:48 AM

Jungle carpet pythons get 6-7ft, they can be aggressive though, have seen some real nice ones and some real mean ones.

Python05 · #8 (**permalink**) 09-12-2007, 05:30 AM

Thanks for the in put from everyone. I have handled a BCI that is supose to be full grown or close and it is close to six foot and I really like the snake but just not sure if it will get bigger and eat rabbits. I like rabbits and so does my lady so we don't want a snake that eats them. I am most likely looking a year from now so I have time to decided what I want.

ssjsmits · #9 (**permalink**) 09-12-2007, 06:02 AM

I think that the attitude of a snake (any species) will be greatly affected by the care it is given. And that doesn't always mean just keeping proper temps will give you a 'nice' snake. How you interact with it, feed, provide privacy (to a degree) among other factors will aid in it's attitude.
.
From my expierence, boas are quite nice pets. I've had more attitude issues with corns, kings and royals than any other.

Python05 · #10 (**permalink**) 09-12-2007, 06:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ssjsmits

I think that the attitude of a snake (any species) will be greatly affected by the care it is given. And that doesn't always mean just keeping proper temps will give you a 'nice' snake. How you interact with it, feed, provide privacy (to a degree) among other factors will aid in it's attitude.
.
From my expierence, boas are quite nice pets. I've had more attitude issues with corns, kings and royals than any other.

How much privacy do you think the snake needs I handle my ball python every day for the most part unless she just ate. Then I wait at least one day before handling her.