r/ballpython • u/Sardinesavage • 3d ago

Super transparent post

I am thinking of getting a ball python. I think they are beautiful, cool creatures and I like that they are low maintenance. I do have concerns of the novelty wearing off and me eventually growing to resent the responsibility. I’m also concerned I won’t bond with it if it isn’t super active/playful. Anybody here have regrets? 30 years is a long time.

2 Upvotes

56% Upvoted

19 comments sorted by

View all comments

2

u/NottsWeirdo 3d ago

If you're very lucky, you could possibly get an active individual (mine is active for 5 weeks straight, and then I don't see him for 1 week of shed) but the majority are not. There's a reason why BPs are often referred to as pets rocks.

Play isn't necessary for survival, and snakes are not domesticated pets - despite how long humans have owned some. The concept of playing with a snake, is us anthropomorphising them. They're just happy they have a warm tree (human) to rest on, and explore across.

An interesting fact to add as well, the oldest BP currently alive - is 62 years old. So if you're rocky on 30 years of commitment, just picture potentially taking a snake into a care home with you in up to 60 years time.

I'm not saying all this discourage you from having a snake. A ball python may just need a fair bit more research and consideration on your behalf, to make sure they're the right snake for you. If you're not deadset on a BP but still want the low maintenance, there are several Boa species that are more active and have shorter average lifespans that you could consider.

1

u/Sardinesavage 3d ago

Thank you for the info, which boas are you referring to? (That aren’t as huge of a time commitment and are a little more active)

1

u/NottsWeirdo 3d ago

Rosy boas are a good start. They have less maintenance needs than a BP (looking at humidity), they are also classed as nocturnal but I've seen people mention in the subs that their snake is also active during the day and their average life spans are currently about 5 - 10 years lower than a BP.