Optional items are italicized.

Enclosure

• The enclosure

• Ideal - 4x2x2’ PVC front-opening enclosure

• There are many manufacturers of reptile enclosures that make suitable enclosures for ball pythons

• Lid (if needed)

• Enclosure locks

Substrate

Choose one:

• 70:30 Mix of Children’s Playsand and organic chemical-free topsoil

• Coconut fiber

• Ex. Zoo Med Eco Earth

• Cypress mulch

• Ex. Zoo Med Forest Floor

Additives

• Sphagnum moss - small amount for inside humid hide

Lighting and Heat

Overhead Heating

At least one of the following heat sources:

• • Par38 dimmable flood style halogen bulb (between 50w-100w)

    • Visible light - good for day heat

AND/OR (if nighttime heat is needed)

• Deep Heat Projector (usually 50w-80w)

  • Good for night heat if needed

OR

• Ceramic Heat Emitter (usually 75w-100w)

  • Good for night heat if needed

• Fixture

• • Dome-style fixture for Par38 Halogen and Ceramic Heat Emitter

• UVB Light

  • Strip style T5 UVB bulb and fixture

    • We recommend the Arcadia Shade Dweller D3 7% UVB T5 Bulb

OR

Under-Tank Heating

• Heat mat

• The mat should cover 2/3rds of the enclosure. Ignore the gallon recommendation and use the dimensions instead

Heating and Lighting Accessories

• Thermostat

• Digital thermometer with probe

  • Two preferred - one for the hot side and one for the cool side

• Digital hygrometer

  • Two preferred - one for the hot side and one for the cool side

• Temperature gun

Decor and Hides

• Three hides minimum

• Branches

• Fake plants

• Rocks

These are just ideas. As long as the decor is ball python safe, it is personal preference. We do not recommend using materials found outside, at least without proper sanitization.

Food and Food Supplies

• Rodents

• Confirm you have consistent access to appropriately sized mice or rats

• Chicks

• Shallow water bowl large enough for the snake to coil in

Miscellaneous and Helpful Items

• Scale that reads in grams

• Tongs (for feeding)

• Reptisafe water conditioner

  • Detoxifies chlorine and other toxic chemicals in the water for their bowls

• Smart plugs

  • Useful for light and heat timers

Cleaning Supplies

• Gloves

• Spray bottles

• F10 veterinary cleaner

• Dawn dish soap