I really dislike that we've gotten to the point where we have to tell people its OK to disagree with an opinion. Should be a given. That said, great video, love your content.
Agreed and more dislike is everyone walks around kissing ass because of political correctness. PC has eroded people’s ability to even put a sentence together anymore, afraid it’s going to offend someone. A big middle finger up to political correctness.
As a boa bloke myself, I also find the boa and the retic way more aesthetically pleasing compared to the ball. Being so slender and elegant with the right personality and seemingly more intelligence. Gorgeous boa btw...
@@6strings735 exactly! Just luv the natural ones, without hating on morphs! If you take the Stoeckel book for instance. There are so many awesome naturals out there, you wouldn't even believe it...
I love all snakes, but pythons are just never appealed to me on some personal level, don't know why. Boas, on the other side... pretty much always wanted one, and after so long, I finally got myself baby bci a two weeks ago, so far he's a sweetie, no hiss, no bite, allows me to handle him and a good eater (so far I fed him only once, but he munched his mouse like a champ). I'm totally a boa girl now. Before him, about a 6 months ago, I got myself a baby corn snake, and she's a sweetie too, haha. Guess I lucky that all my snakes a very docile, hope it stays that way! Love your videos!! Sorry if my English is weird, not my first language.
You're the first person I've ever heard say ball pythons aren't great starters. I respect your opinion and you obviously know what you're talking about. I had a ball python for ~9 years before I had to donate him (to a good home) when I joined the army. He was captive bred and ate like a champ every week like clockwork. Great videos, keep it up!
My retic is very docile. I tap trained her since she was 2 months old. The only time I worry is when I feed her. She has a very strong feeding response. Other that she's a sweetheart.
I think you are right! Everyone I talk to asks my recommendation on pet snakes, and they ask about ball pythons. I always mention how finicky they are with eating. I always say corn snakes, milk snakes, or king snakes. the most advanced i recommend is a Boa, and that's only because my first snake was and is a boa. She is the best snake I have ever handled. I worked with snakes of all kinds, but i found a neglected boa in a petco and bought her, fed her and now instead of starved, she is a normal weight and in a proper tank.
I'm a boa guy also. I think it's so funny that you held that snake for this vid. Because my female motley boa is by far the most cage aggressive one I own. Great video brother.
Yes! I totally agree with the ball pythons eating habits dude! My first ball went through a stage of 2 months without eating in the winter, it drove me nuts throwing out rats every two weeks, she eats fine now and haven't done that in years but it was stressful at first
Totally agree with you on the ball pythons. I want a pied, eventually, but WHEN I have the patience for their possible feeding picky-ness hahaa. Glad you mentioned the retics and tree boas too. They all make fantastic pets, like you said though, WHEN you do thorough research to make sure you're fully dedicated to the animal. Every specie has their own specific needs, some easier while others not. Great job again Jason! ❤🐍🐍❤
Thank you! Slow and steady. The channel is growing with some great subscribers and that's all I care about. I feel like as long as I stay true to the reasons I started the channel then I can't go wrong.
Sometimes I think people think too hard about ball pythons. I had trouble with mine for years, having him in a big 40 gallon. Always shedding problems, sometimes wouldn’t eat, couldn’t keep the humidity up. I switched him out to a big plastic storage container for like 20 bucks. And now he’s doing great. Always sheds good. Always eats super easy. Always chillin. Probably not the case with every ball python but I think less is more with them.
Thats just it. Care needs to be on point. It's not hard care, but people always project human feelings on a reptile. They want an elaborate pretty cage and thats really not great for them unless everything else is accounted for.
Gawd yes my first snake was a BP and I almost walked away from snakes after that experience. Definitely not a snake I would ever suggest as a first time snake. Gorgeous boa you're holding.
@@ByIntros it went off feeding for a year. No matter what i did. I couldn't get her to eat. It was extremely stressful and made me feel I wasn't fit to care for snakes. But I didnt give up and now i have 16 snakes XD
I’ve had a few ball pythons but never through buying myself (always got offered them) and I’d never buy one. They can be a nightmare. I had to find a rat breeder near me to feed one freshly killed. I’ve had bows and corns and not one problem. Would love a burm but not sure if that’s a great idea with 2 under three kids in the house :) maybe one day.
My first snake was a subadult ATB I got a couple years ago, and while I love and respect her as a really impressive snake I do regret getting her as a first snake at at a time I was unprepared. I'm in the process of transitioning her to a much better environment for her where I basically plan to leave her be and admire visually. My baby BI I've had for 6 months is fantastic and is so trusting of me it blows me away, I love this little guy so much. Your videos were part of the reason I chose to try a boa constrictor and I'm thankful for that
FuckUHoe To be fair, hogs can be as stubborn as balls for eating. I highly discourage as a first snake, especially since they’re so cheap now and called “noodles.” Snakes don’t like to be “bopped, Karen.
Jason's Exotic Reptiles I hate to say it but I’m retic for life I’m 13 in age but I love my four I got a anthrax tiger albino super tiger lavender albino tiger citron tiger and pied
@@teamliquify6614 wow alot to handle, fair play if you can keep it up! was thinking of a burm maybe one day but that's it for me don't think I have the time for that many, unless you come from a very well off family I would leave it there though or it may be more of a struggle than you realize once you move out and have to care for yourself and all these large animals. tbh the biggest set up I have had included just a boa and carpet wall and I have to admit without breeding to help pay for anything it was difficult, heaters always break at the worst time and in numbers 😂 I'm sure since your looking after them at 13 you will bemore than capable when you are older just saying think cash first lol.
I really have to tell you that I have really enjoyed your content. I'm new to the world of Boidae and the more I learn the.more I'm finding myself drawn in. Certainly, moreso than other species in the past. Thank you, Jason! Hope you're well during these times.
Nice video. I just got my first snake, a two month old BP three weeks ago and he was being fed live. I had to laugh when you said how they wait for food, because on his second live feeding he missed and I think the mouse snipped back (I wasn't laughing then) but now he is in stealth mode waiting and the mouse is digging burrows hiding (for three hours), but happy to say on week three he took a frozen thawed with no problem. He was very defensive at first, but now he is a joy and likes being held...he is my little buddy.
Nice video. We just got a ball python for my son as his first reptile and she is not liking the Frozen thawed. If we have to feed her live forever, that's what we'll do but, kind of a pain. She's cool though. Keep up the good work man.
I got my ball from my mom 30 years ago! Went to frozen med rat when a friend watched her so I continued, never had a problem, the smaller ones might lose more odor and will lose heat quickly, just a guess
My ball python only ate live for the first year and a half of her life. Tried every other week with a frozen thawed, and one day she took it and it was never an issue again. Just keep trying 😊
Not sure how you're thawing them. I set the frozen rat in the fridge overnight, then set it on the counter for about 30 minutes, then put it under the bearded dragon heat lamp for 15 minutes on both sides and mine takes it no problem, 3 months old. Tried thawing in water and she wouldn't take it so switched it up to the heat lamp.
Jason, it seems like that time of year for my carpet python...How long would you wait inbetween feedings if a snake has refused 2 large rats already. I've been giving it about a month now. Thanks man!
That's very snake dependent. I've seen some go off feed for 9 months in pound food for the three months of the year and others that never go off feed. You just need to read the snake and figure you will try every few weeks
I have 2 ball pythons and so far not issues. Just off feeding at times but I've had them for awhile so I realized a pattern. They are really easy to handle.
I agree with this list. I love ball pythons but only my buddys lol dont own them myself. Im 34 and i have had pet and breeder reptiles alotta my life ive only added retics recently they are WONDERFUL but im glad i waited til i knew i was ready for sure
My first snake is a ball python and she is amazing and doing really great :) but I totally understand your point of view though. It isn’t easy at all! Still very rewarding
I had serious issue with getting my ball pythons shed off in Colorado. I soaked the snake/ misted the cage. But always the eye caps got stuck. I felt like a terrible human being and like I was not taking care of the animal. Not to mention the snake would never submerge even though the water temp was perfect. I agree on the ball python issues.
I’ve heard a lot about ball pythons being bad beginner pets which surprised me considering my 6yo F normal was my first. I’ve had virtually no problems but after more research on them I definitely understand how they could be bad for beginners.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but i feel like normals have a better chance of being a healthy pet. Not having been so selectively breed for the morph. I might be wrong and yours is het for a lot of morphs and it turned out normal as an accident. It's just a theory
I agree that balls are probably the worst common “beginner” snake. Their humidity, their feeding schedule, some morphs have neurological issues...IMO colubrids make the best beginner snakes, though I know they don’t tend to have as many morphs.
yes i agree 100%. ive owned 3 balls and 1 corn snake. corn snake by far the better pet. fun to handle, great feeding response, and normal heat and humidity.
@@Rryan8065 Ball Pythons are not great beginner snakes. They can be great snakes with time but I would not recommend them as first pets. And just because someone failed with a ball python doesn’t mean they can’t take care of a snakes. Some snakes are easier then others.
@@martelchestnut2829 you should know the facts before you talk. Bps have easy care, easy husbandry, not big, friendly, and overall great beginners. What makes you think they aren’t?
I have been researching for almost two months now, and I finally decided to get my first snake (green tree python). There are a lot of these videos about beginner snakes, I’ve probably watched them all at this point, and I considered going with an ‘easy’ or starter choice but, I have always been fascinated with aboreal snakes. I didn’t want a beginner snake, I wanted a specific snake that I’ve always dreamed of owning. After all my research, the only double edge sword I can find with my choice was that I won’t be able to handle him/her much, but that’s okay. Eventually I would like to get a second snake and I’ve read solomon island and madagascar tree boas are some arboreal species that are much easier to handle.
I couldn't agree more regards royal pythons but I don't necessarily agree regards retics. However, I agree wholeheartedly when it comes to mainland retics but for the super dwarf localities (Karompa, Kalatoa, and Madu's), with the proper research, understanding, and preparation, they could be a good first snake. Even the larger of the smaller species, such as Jampea and Selayer only really reach 8-12ft, not really much bigger than a female boa. On the whole though, it was another awesome video 👍🏻
Boa constrictor imperator, recommend a male since they're smaller than the females, reaching 7 feet on average. About the size being displayed in the video. Males grow faster than females, but the females get a load bigger. Watch the video from Clint's Reptiles channel about boa constrictors! It sealed the deal with me! Absolutely adore my boa ❤
I stayed away from getting a Ball Python just b/c I don't really want to mess with monitoring humidity all the time, although I've read/heard they can be tolerant of poor husbandry. And that's why I bought a woma, and am thinking about getting a Bredls. Boas and balls look amazing, but I like not having to mist or keep anything damp lol
Yeah, I live in a mildly drier climate, and anymore for me it is just easier to keep snakes that are more tolerant of that, although I do use humidity boxes inside the cages. Womas are great, as are spotted and children's pythons.
I keep several different species, and almost everything is a better feeder than ball pythons. Boas demand more respect than a ball when it comes to handling, but I really enjoy their extra level of intelligence. Another great video Jason!
Sometimes when I'm handling my boa I can see him notice that I'm looking at him and hell look me in the eyes and calmly watch me, not freezing in the "I'm scared" way. Spooks me every time
Like many others here I also agree with ball pythons. My first snake was a ball and I have 3 now and a BCI. Mostly my snakes are good feeders, but boy that first year when I was still getting the hang of things it was rough. They're good snakes, but you gotta be able to be patient and just leave em alone. Which for a pet usually isn't a plus because you want to handle them. My BCI on the other had hasn't met a meal he hasn't loved. He's a bit more intense than the balls, but feeding isn't a problem.
I got my first snake ever last September. I decided to adopt one someone had to get rid of, I live in Canada so not a Lot to choose from at pet stores anyways. my GF really wanted a a ball python, I decided on a colubrid of some kind. I found a 6 year old Hypo Brooks Florida Kingsnake. The way the guy took the pics made him look like he was tiny. He's an easy 6 feet, I was blown away at how much bigger he was than what I expected. I did a bunch of research, upgraded pretty much everything he came in / with. He was supposed to eat the day i got him so the guy suggested I try, he ate like it was nothing. He's shed 2 times, he hasn't even hissed at me once even when I took him out a couple days after he ate for the first time. He is everything I could ask for in a pet snake. I joined the reddit snakes thread, and all I see is posts of people asking how and why their balls wont eat. If I had gotten a ball python I know i would be struggling right now with the humidity, its cold this time of year and the air is dry as F. The Kingsnake doesn't care bout none of that, has got a huge bowl that he soaks in before he sheds and after he eats, the aspen he burrows in all day keeps the humidity around 37 and i worried about it till he had a perfect shed on his own while I was sleeping. I can't think of a single reason someone would wanna get rid of the guy i got. but hes mine now till he dies. I thank the lucky stars i didnt get the pain in the ass trendy snake and got the one that is perfect for me.
I started with a ball python and still have her, she's wonderful about feeding, but most of the ball pythons I have had are big pain in the butts. I agree with you, they are great as far as handleability for new keepers. BUT they can be such a major pain. I love the honesty of your channel. Thanks for your content!
It can be amazing snakes and I don't want to hate on them, but I don't think they're the best for beginner. I actually think they I'm more of a medium to Advanced hobbyist or at least somebody who has a lot of patience
100% agree with the Retic. They’ve been my favorite all around snakes because of how tame and friendly they can be, but you definitely have to know how to turn that feeding response off
Excellent video - I've been in the hobby for 33 years, and the subject of feeding is not strictly related to royal pythons. Look on any forum or group and newbies will be reporting their Hognose has goon off food, or cornsnake has stopped eating... every species has it's biorhythm and depending what the season is (breeding / bermation) they will either stop eating or binge feed. It's also down to the individual snake. I have a royal that has an appetite of a retic and has hardly missed a feed (other than when gravid). The learning and research is all part of the hobby. I too love boa's, and my 8' Jungle Pastel male has just taken his first meal in nearly three months as he was otherwise focused on finding a female....so even boa's which are commonly referred to as dustbins (trash cans for you guys that side of the pond) go off food at times.
I don't understand the "ball python does not eat everytime"-issue that many people have. It's completely normal for snakes not to eat at times. If the husbandry is OK like humidity, temperature, a hide and fresh water and the snake looks fine there is no reason to worry. I know my snakes. My lesser pastel male stops eating in fall and starts eating in spring. After he rejects food for the first time, I try 2 times more and stop to annoy him after that point. In february I start to offer him food again when I feed my other ball pythons. When he takes the first rodent, I will miss one rodent for one of my other snakes. I go to my freezer and defrost one rodent more. What is the big problem? Feeding issues are a topic for breeders, not so much for pet keepers. I don't understand why some people stop having ball pythons because of the feeding and leave the hobby. I won't leave my girlfriend over her eating habits as long as it doesn't cause serious problems. I think some people are just selfish, they want their snakes to always eat and their will is the only thing that matters.
@@andreheise1170 It boils down to lack of research - Plain and simple. If people researched the metabolism of the snake, the seasonal rainfall, humidity, and matched that to the breeding habits in the wild then it would all become clear.
What about a dwarf locality retic, I thought that they reach around about 6-10 feet or is that false? And if they really do get that big do you think they’d make a relatively good pet?
Real super dwarfs will get about that size. The problem is that most people selling dwarfs are not real dwarfs. They just have some tiny percentage in the lineage
Haha I knew the Retic was gonna make the list. That was my beginner snake I bought it out of lack of knowledge. But I did great had no issues. Great video great content
Jason, we appreciate your candor and expertise. As a Rhode Islander with a penchant for tank tops, I feel like I can trust you. Buddy the Ball Python says hi!
Thank you for this post. I have Ball Pythons, 4 hatchlings and two adults. Two of the little ones need forced and assist feeding. Not for the faint of heart. I am new to the hobby and learned about Ball Pythons before getting one.
I really like this video! I definitely feel like any snake can be difficult for anyone if they don't know what they're getting into. I always wanted a reticulated python, but it took me years of dealing with various other types of snakes, a ton of research, and knowing i had the space for them before I actually got one and now I absolutely love my experiences with them :) I'm super glad I didn't start off with one though haha
I agree with the ball python when I was looking to get my first pet snake I wanted one for so long of a specific morph but the more I thought about it I realized I probably don’t want something that would go off feed. I know it would stress me out and also there are snakes out there with easier requirements. I ended up going with a Mexican black kingsnake
Lol I liked this one. I had a king snake as my first snake and as weird as it sounds I wouldn't recommend one as a first snake for a younger keeper. Just bcuz no one ever told me that they have a super strong feeding response. Everytime if take her out if get bite like 30 times. She just NVR would calm down
King snakes are the only ones I hook train. I don't think they make a bad first snake. They can have a little attitude but they're cheap, good looking, and bullet proof as far as husbandry.
Great video!! Long story short I've been slacking on keeping up with TH-cam but couldn't have picked a better time to get back to it. I JUST bought a beautiful ball python, after watching your video I have decided to change his apartment completely!! Thank you for sharing! 😁❤
THANK YOU! I was hardcore looking into BPs because I heard they were a magnificent beginner snake. Pfft... 20 videos into research and I completely dropped my BP phase. Ngl, they are amazing animals, but they're not my cup of tea. I think they are for a bit more experienced people when it comes to feeding strikes. They stress easily, and if you're looking for a more active snake or something you'll be able to see out of its hide more, Ball pythons are something you might want to pass on 😕. Great content! Glad to see someone actually putting that in the light!
@@JasonsExoticReptiles no worries brother. keep up the good work. looking forward to owning a boa in the future. im just starting on snakes and got a recommendation from a friend to just start with ball pythons. just to get experience what it is like owning snakes first before going to a boa constrictor which I am eager to own ahahaha. fan from Malaysia bro.
Whenever I hear a snake expert talk about the reticulated python they only mention how long it gets but they never talked about how heavy the snake gets can anyone tell me how heavy can that snake get? And out of all the pythons I always thought the Burmese was the heaviest some people say that the African rock can you tell me which is the heaviest and how long can these two snakes get?
I cant say on the african rock or the Burmese...I have a 12ft retic and it takes 2 to lift 3 would be alot easier. Cant give a number but they are really heavy
Especially baby Ball Pythons!! I've lost 3 in the past, due to not eating. I tried assist feeding them, but to no avail. My adults, and sub adults eat like a champ, every other week without fail. I'm keeping my collection under 10' for the reasons you stated. Boas are going to be my next snakes.
I've always been a boa girl myself. I'm actually just getting my first ball python. They're pretty but again I still prefer boas... never had any problems with them.
my first snake is a ball python and i totally agree with you when they have feeding strikes. as a beginner, i was paranoid that she wasn’t eating for a month and then i gave her live and now she’s doing well. if i knew that would’ve happened, i would’ve gotten a corn snake or boa lmaooo
Regarding Retics, you can get a dwarf or super dwarf retic if you are worried about their big size. SD retics are between 6-9ft and the karompa localities are the smallest! average size 5-7ft.
Our B. P. Had all the feeding issues it’s so true and frustrating. Now at two years old you learn to feed every two weeks and this has made a big difference. If they don’t eat wait a week. A big snake soon becomes a liability and not much of a pet.
I have 2 Ball Pythons. 1 male and 1 female. They are doing very well. Pass all of the routine checks when I take them to be seen by a reptile vet. But I do have to agree with you on Balls. I wouldn't recommend them for everyone. Getting a Boa next though. Did my research. Use to work with snakes and all. Actually miss it.
A video I'm interested in but not sure if youd want to do is going over recent changes to the hobby or our knowledge, like new methods of caging, morphs, BCI becoming BI, etc
Ball pythons are so overexposed in this hobby, I’ve gotten to the point where I’m tired of seeing them, and hearing about them. I used to have a couple of them, they were rehomed and I bought a carpet python. I’ll never go back. I love all creatures but man I’m just tired of ball pythons. Carpets almost never refused a meal!
So I've been keeping boas for about a decade. I've had a few burms as well. I recently have just fallen in love with a specific retic morph, and I reeeaaallly want this retic now. Would you recommend someone like me who would technically be a beginner keeper with a retic, but not with larger snakes in general, to go for it and get one?
Funny enough, I've had he WORST luck with corn snakes, and the best luck with my ball python. Sometimes it's just like that. I'm blessed that mine won't skip meals unless she's in shed. I do wish she would sit in my lap once in a while though, like others say theirs do. Mine constantly wants to be moving around when she's out, that I have to laugh when people call their BPs "pet rocks" or say they never climb. Mine apparently never got the memo.
Everyone told me that I should get a ball python when we decided to get a snake for me and my 2 year old daughter. In my opinion, they're boring!! I feel bad saying that, but even they're habitat is basic. We have boas now and we love them!! ❤ It's really nice to hear that we're not the only people whose favorite snake isn't a ball python! They're all I hear about these days 😒
I’ve recently got a ball python I’ve got him to eat successfully once but the last few times he/she has gotten the fuzzy from the side and was un able to eat it after words any tips ? And also how can I find out the sex ?
Leave it alone for awhile it should figure it out If it's still there in the morning remove it . The spur size might give a clue larger would indicate a male.
My first snake was a ball python and she wasted so many rats being a very picky eater. Throwing away food is frustrating so I bought a jungle carpet python. If the ball doesnt eat my jungle will that's a win win.
I think another channel said a ball python makes a great pet after you have a boa or two because then you don't have to worry about feeders going to waste when they decide they don't want the rat.
I honestly think that royals are very overrated. There's so many amazing snakes but alot of people seem to fall into the following of others instead of developing there own opinion 🤔 it's a shame I think.
@@JasonsExoticReptiles it's funny because I own three ball pythons and it's super easy for me to take care of them... but that's because I keep them in a rack and the natural humidity here (central Texas) is already pretty much perfect for them year round (stays smack on about 50% indoors, slightly higher in the racks). It's really easy to keep them consistent. However I can see how a beginner keeping one in a tank could have a lot of issues. I think they mostly get pushed a good beginner snakes because of their temperaments but I think nowadays I would recommend a corn for people that want an average size snake and a boa for people that want something a little bigger and more expensive to care for.
I agree with corn as a beginner. I had one at 11 years old. Lol. I got a ball python and had been keeping her in a tank. Just moved her to a tub to keep her humidity up this winter. In also in central Texas so during the summer I didnt really have to worry about it too much cuz it stayed up at 70 regardless lol
While you are right that retics in general are a more advanced species, there are dwarf localities that get to a much reduced and manageable size, though you have to get them from a reputable dwarf retic breeder (not mainland retic breeder) to make sure that they have still been bred for their small size when crossed with mainlands, because some breeders will breed a small male dwarf retic to a large mainland female to get a bunch of eggs, and because snakes tend to be closer to the size of their mother, then you may still end up with a large snake, even if it is labeled dwarf. Whereas if you breed a mainland male to a dwarf female, you get less eggs, but you end up with smaller snakes, and if you then repeat the process then you can get the mainland morphs in a dwarf snake, but you still have to be careful about who you buy them from. If your wondering, the best dwarf retic breeder I know of is Reach out Reptiles.
Interesting opinion about the ball pythons... I actually own 2 and got them at the same time male and female and I treat them the same, feed them at the same time (once a week) And I've had them since February 2019 till now and In my personal experience (I know everyone has different experiences) my snakes has NEVER been picky! My snakes will always eat when it's feeding time. When I first got them they were already 4 months maybe 1¼ - 1½ in long and I was feeding mice and when I switched to rats they still attacked and ate. I've even fed frozen/thawed if the store ran out of live that certain day and they still ate! If they're hungry they'll eat They are now 2¼ inches almost 2½ and they eat hopper rats (X small) and soon I will move them up to Small.
The feeding issues really start to occur as they get into breeding season and sometimes you never get them. Sometimes you're just get the perfect snake
Thank you Bro for telling the truth about keeping ball pythons. Even me i had a terible experince in keeping ball pythons. That's why i bought burmese python and sell my 2 bp's.
I started out keeping snakes I caught in the wild when I was a kid and almost all of them except for 2 where very defensive. It’s almost impossible to tame a wild snake unless you know what you are doing and even then it all depends on whether the animal trusts you. My dad is more of an expert in catching and correctly handling wild snakes ( Black Racers, Water Snakes, Black Rat Snakes, Rattlesnakes, Copperheads etc. But yes there is a big difference between keeping a wild snake vs buying one already bred in captivity
Ive had my first snake for 2 months now, a Ball Python and she is Perfect for me. She is calm and easy to handle, didnt eat for the first 3 weeks but now she eats like a champ. I love that she is not going to be super large. I Think size is a thing to consider.
Well, yep I agree wc can be a massive shift to captivity. Parasites infections are a given. Feeding is always on people's mind's. Reducing stress is key to feeding so mimic what they would get in the wild best you can after quarantine. Even in quarantine paper balls a pvc climbing stand for arboreal snakes. Humidity on point good ventilation. Temps to mimic day night cycle for home terrain.
I think I lucked out with my bp, he was given to me by a family member and needs a bit of work but dude does he eat like a boss! He makes it easy to help him! He’s a normal, not a fancy morph but he’s not fearful, not head shy and easy to handle. I was not a bp girl but how could I say no to an easy animal in need. He spends his day in his hide but at night he comes out and lays on his slate, he has a low branch he climbs to get to another hide. When he’s out he’s real docile and has changed a few peoples minds about snakes being horrible creatures! I wouldn’t have him as my only snake but he’s definitely an awesome part of the collection.
As much as I love my ball python, I never recommend them to first timers. For 4/5 of the year he’s great but every breeding season he goes on a hunger strike and I don’t even have a female ball python around that he can smell. I’ll definitely be sticking with boas in the future. Maybe in 15 or 20 years when I have a house and hit my midlife crisis I’ll get a burm lol.
Im a biker and a reptile enthusiast. My reptile collection is pretty big and like most reptile advocates, I dont want people buying reptiles that dont understand what they are getting into like motorcycling. Both can have serious consequences. I have many rescue animals that I now care for with my wife and its how it is in this hobby. The reason I bring up biking is that people dont see the inherent danger in poor decision making on an impulsive purchase. And I've seen the later become tragic sadly to many times. With coolness comes great responsibility. I mean that from the heart.
I believe retics are fine as beginner snakes like you said they are intelligent and they do recongize there owner other than there size and feeding response and housing and feeding bill I would recommend I love em
It's rare to actually get a ball python that's not captive bred if any at all, I've never had anything but good luck with my ball pythons however my 3 boas are all snippy and super aggressive and I spend 4-5 hrs a week between the 3.. not sure what I'm doing wrong
![ILLSLICK X YOUNGOHM - We're The same [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yUJNkobYR0E/mqdefault.jpg)
Love that you are willing to say “no” to some beginner snakes. How refreshing to be told the truth! Thank you.
True, you have to do your homework. People should read more it helps.
I really dislike that we've gotten to the point where we have to tell people its OK to disagree with an opinion. Should be a given. That said, great video, love your content.
Pretty sad isn't it! Thanks for watching!!
So true! It's frustrating as it is, but dealing with it in the public, no thanks! Lol
Fantastic comment and fantastic video
Agreed and more dislike is everyone walks around kissing ass because of political correctness. PC has eroded people’s ability to even put a sentence together anymore, afraid it’s going to offend someone. A big middle finger up to political correctness.
Oh, its gonna get worse.
As a boa bloke myself, I also find the boa and the retic way more aesthetically pleasing compared to the ball. Being so slender and elegant with the right personality and seemingly more intelligence. Gorgeous boa btw...
Thank you!
Agreeee
Same. Boas are just naturally beautiful for some reason. No morphs even needed (morphs are cool, but not necessary for a boa to be stunning IMO.)
I have a hypo boa male and just amazing
@@6strings735 exactly! Just luv the natural ones, without hating on morphs! If you take the Stoeckel book for instance. There are so many awesome naturals out there, you wouldn't even believe it...
I love all snakes, but pythons are just never appealed to me on some personal level, don't know why. Boas, on the other side... pretty much always wanted one, and after so long, I finally got myself baby bci a two weeks ago, so far he's a sweetie, no hiss, no bite, allows me to handle him and a good eater (so far I fed him only once, but he munched his mouse like a champ). I'm totally a boa girl now. Before him, about a 6 months ago, I got myself a baby corn snake, and she's a sweetie too, haha. Guess I lucky that all my snakes a very docile, hope it stays that way!
Love your videos!! Sorry if my English is weird, not my first language.
You're the first person I've ever heard say ball pythons aren't great starters. I respect your opinion and you obviously know what you're talking about. I had a ball python for ~9 years before I had to donate him (to a good home) when I joined the army. He was captive bred and ate like a champ every week like clockwork. Great videos, keep it up!
Thank you. Not that they are terrible just wouldn't be my first recommendation for a beginner
My retic is very docile. I tap trained her since she was 2 months old. The only time I worry is when I feed her. She has a very strong feeding response. Other that she's a sweetheart.
I should mention that she has her own bedroom. So if you get one be ready for that.
Awesome thank you for the ball python bit. Everything makes so much sense now.
I think you are right! Everyone I talk to asks my recommendation on pet snakes, and they ask about ball pythons. I always mention how finicky they are with eating. I always say corn snakes, milk snakes, or king snakes. the most advanced i recommend is a Boa, and that's only because my first snake was and is a boa. She is the best snake I have ever handled. I worked with snakes of all kinds, but i found a neglected boa in a petco and bought her, fed her and now instead of starved, she is a normal weight and in a proper tank.
I'm a boa guy also. I think it's so funny that you held that snake for this vid. Because my female motley boa is by far the most cage aggressive one I own. Great video brother.
Thank you!
It's nice to hear someone with abit of common sense for a change that doesn't have his own agender regarding the snakes .
Yes! I totally agree with the ball pythons eating habits dude! My first ball went through a stage of 2 months without eating in the winter, it drove me nuts throwing out rats every two weeks, she eats fine now and haven't done that in years but it was stressful at first
Totally agree with you on the ball pythons. I want a pied, eventually, but WHEN I have the patience for their possible feeding picky-ness hahaa. Glad you mentioned the retics and tree boas too. They all make fantastic pets, like you said though, WHEN you do thorough research to make sure you're fully dedicated to the animal. Every specie has their own specific needs, some easier while others not. Great job again Jason! ❤🐍🐍❤
You really sound sensible, conscientious and like you know what you're doing; you deserve more subs than some of these clickbait pettubers.
Thank you! Slow and steady. The channel is growing with some great subscribers and that's all I care about. I feel like as long as I stay true to the reasons I started the channel then I can't go wrong.
So glad your back making videos regularly again. Thanks for taking time out of your day for us.
Sometimes I think people think too hard about ball pythons. I had trouble with mine for years, having him in a big 40 gallon. Always shedding problems, sometimes wouldn’t eat, couldn’t keep the humidity up. I switched him out to a big plastic storage container for like 20 bucks. And now he’s doing great. Always sheds good. Always eats super easy. Always chillin. Probably not the case with every ball python but I think less is more with them.
Thats just it. Care needs to be on point. It's not hard care, but people always project human feelings on a reptile. They want an elaborate pretty cage and thats really not great for them unless everything else is accounted for.
Gawd yes my first snake was a BP and I almost walked away from snakes after that experience. Definitely not a snake I would ever suggest as a first time snake.
Gorgeous boa you're holding.
Thank you!
Why was it a bad experience?
@@ByIntros it went off feeding for a year. No matter what i did. I couldn't get her to eat. It was extremely stressful and made me feel I wasn't fit to care for snakes. But I didnt give up and now i have 16 snakes XD
I got lucky with my BP he wasn't too fussy with eating. However the balancing heat to humidity ratio was difficult.
I’ve had a few ball pythons but never through buying myself (always got offered them) and I’d never buy one. They can be a nightmare. I had to find a rat breeder near me to feed one freshly killed. I’ve had bows and corns and not one problem. Would love a burm but not sure if that’s a great idea with 2 under three kids in the house :) maybe one day.
My first snake was a subadult ATB I got a couple years ago, and while I love and respect her as a really impressive snake I do regret getting her as a first snake at at a time I was unprepared. I'm in the process of transitioning her to a much better environment for her where I basically plan to leave her be and admire visually. My baby BI I've had for 6 months is fantastic and is so trusting of me it blows me away, I love this little guy so much. Your videos were part of the reason I chose to try a boa constrictor and I'm thankful for that
Thank you!
I thought your last category would be “anything venomous”, but maybe you found it too obvious to state :)
Let us hope, but then, I know how people are!
Yeah I forgot to mention them as kind of a given that anything venomous is a pretty dumb choice as a first pet haha.
@@JasonsExoticReptiles Unless it's only semi-venomous like a hognose
FuckUHoe
To be fair, hogs can be as stubborn as balls for eating. I highly discourage as a first snake, especially since they’re so cheap now and called “noodles.” Snakes don’t like to be “bopped, Karen.
@@dlopezduncan1964 or a false water cobra. They're quite easy so long as you have a massive enclosure
Gotta say it's great to see guy who REALLY cares and has a brain. Covers all topics in detail, 100% facts and truth
Thanks man!!
Jason's Exotic Reptiles I hate to say it but I’m retic for life I’m 13 in age but I love my four I got a anthrax tiger albino super tiger lavender albino tiger citron tiger and pied
@@teamliquify6614 wow alot to handle, fair play if you can keep it up! was thinking of a burm maybe one day but that's it for me don't think I have the time for that many, unless you come from a very well off family I would leave it there though or it may be more of a struggle than you realize once you move out and have to care for yourself and all these large animals. tbh the biggest set up I have had included just a boa and carpet wall and I have to admit without breeding to help pay for anything it was difficult, heaters always break at the worst time and in numbers 😂 I'm sure since your looking after them at 13 you will bemore than capable when you are older just saying think cash first lol.
I really have to tell you that I have really enjoyed your content. I'm new to the world of Boidae and the more I learn the.more I'm finding myself drawn in. Certainly, moreso than other species in the past.
Thank you, Jason! Hope you're well during these times.
Thank you!! I appreciate that. Hope you are doing great as well!
This would be one of the hardest topics to answer for me cause the fluctuation of benefits and downs to each , my head would spin on this one
Ethics of breeding - yes! Good topic!! Looking forward to that one, this was good also but I already knew I couldn’t handle a retic, lol.
Nice video. I just got my first snake, a two month old BP three weeks ago and he was being fed live. I had to laugh when you said how they wait for food, because on his second live feeding he missed and I think the mouse snipped back (I wasn't laughing then) but now he is in stealth mode waiting and the mouse is digging burrows hiding (for three hours), but happy to say on week three he took a frozen thawed with no problem. He was very defensive at first, but now he is a joy and likes being held...he is my little buddy.
Nice video. We just got a ball python for my son as his first reptile and she is not liking the Frozen thawed. If we have to feed her live forever, that's what we'll do but, kind of a pain. She's cool though.
Keep up the good work man.
I got my ball from my mom 30 years ago! Went to frozen med rat when a friend watched her so I continued, never had a problem, the smaller ones might lose more odor and will lose heat quickly, just a guess
My ball python only ate live for the first year and a half of her life. Tried every other week with a frozen thawed, and one day she took it and it was never an issue again. Just keep trying 😊
Not sure how you're thawing them. I set the frozen rat in the fridge overnight, then set it on the counter for about 30 minutes, then put it under the bearded dragon heat lamp for 15 minutes on both sides and mine takes it no problem, 3 months old. Tried thawing in water and she wouldn't take it so switched it up to the heat lamp.
She ate Frozen thawed tonight! Thrilled!
@@drumdad1242 woohoo, that's a win! Happy for you buddy!
"Not gonna pull a Brian Barczyk..." - shots fired! Lmao
Thanks for another great video Jason! Please keep them coming!
Jason, it seems like that time of year for my carpet python...How long would you wait inbetween feedings if a snake has refused 2 large rats already. I've been giving it about a month now. Thanks man!
That's very snake dependent. I've seen some go off feed for 9 months in pound food for the three months of the year and others that never go off feed. You just need to read the snake and figure you will try every few weeks
I have 2 ball pythons and so far not issues. Just off feeding at times but I've had them for awhile so I realized a pattern. They are really easy to handle.
I agree with this list. I love ball pythons but only my buddys lol dont own them myself. Im 34 and i have had pet and breeder reptiles alotta my life ive only added retics recently they are WONDERFUL but im glad i waited til i knew i was ready for sure
BALL PYTHONS! LITTERALY MY FIRST SNAKE AND WAS AND STILL IS SO SWEET
My first snake is a ball python and she is amazing and doing really great :) but I totally understand your point of view though. It isn’t easy at all! Still very rewarding
I had serious issue with getting my ball pythons shed off in Colorado. I soaked the snake/ misted the cage. But always the eye caps got stuck. I felt like a terrible human being and like I was not taking care of the animal. Not to mention the snake would never submerge even though the water temp was perfect. I agree on the ball python issues.
I’ve heard a lot about ball pythons being bad beginner pets which surprised me considering my 6yo F normal was my first. I’ve had virtually no problems but after more research on them I definitely understand how they could be bad for beginners.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but i feel like normals have a better chance of being a healthy pet. Not having been so selectively breed for the morph. I might be wrong and yours is het for a lot of morphs and it turned out normal as an accident. It's just a theory
Boas hell yes,not enough boa love out there!!! Thank you for being honest and not being a salesman,haha love the Brian B comment
I agree that balls are probably the worst common “beginner” snake. Their humidity, their feeding schedule, some morphs have neurological issues...IMO colubrids make the best beginner snakes, though I know they don’t tend to have as many morphs.
yes i agree 100%. ive owned 3 balls and 1 corn snake. corn snake by far the better pet. fun to handle, great feeding response, and normal heat and humidity.
Absolutely. If you want a python as a first snake get a children's Python.
I don’t see those as problems because if you can’t take care of a ball python where are you going to go with snakes in the future?
@@Rryan8065 Ball Pythons are not great beginner snakes. They can be great snakes with time but I would not recommend them as first pets. And just because someone failed with a ball python doesn’t mean they can’t take care of a snakes. Some snakes are easier then others.
@@martelchestnut2829 you should know the facts before you talk. Bps have easy care, easy husbandry, not big, friendly, and overall great beginners. What makes you think they aren’t?
I have been researching for almost two months now, and I finally decided to get my first snake (green tree python). There are a lot of these videos about beginner snakes, I’ve probably watched them all at this point, and I considered going with an ‘easy’ or starter choice but, I have always been fascinated with aboreal snakes. I didn’t want a beginner snake, I wanted a specific snake that I’ve always dreamed of owning. After all my research, the only double edge sword I can find with my choice was that I won’t be able to handle him/her much, but that’s okay. Eventually I would like to get a second snake and I’ve read solomon island and madagascar tree boas are some arboreal species that are much easier to handle.
I couldn't agree more regards royal pythons but I don't necessarily agree regards retics. However, I agree wholeheartedly when it comes to mainland retics but for the super dwarf localities (Karompa, Kalatoa, and Madu's), with the proper research, understanding, and preparation, they could be a good first snake. Even the larger of the smaller species, such as Jampea and Selayer only really reach 8-12ft, not really much bigger than a female boa.
On the whole though, it was another awesome video 👍🏻
I am looking for a Boa that my child can handle and grow up with. She is 9 and it would be her first snake. What do you suggest?
Boa constrictor imperator, recommend a male since they're smaller than the females, reaching 7 feet on average. About the size being displayed in the video. Males grow faster than females, but the females get a load bigger. Watch the video from Clint's Reptiles channel about boa constrictors! It sealed the deal with me! Absolutely adore my boa ❤
I cant fault my corn snake. He was a rescue. I've now expanded my collection from milk snakes to retics lol
I stayed away from getting a Ball Python just b/c I don't really want to mess with monitoring humidity all the time, although I've read/heard they can be tolerant of poor husbandry. And that's why I bought a woma, and am thinking about getting a Bredls. Boas and balls look amazing, but I like not having to mist or keep anything damp lol
Yeah, I live in a mildly drier climate, and anymore for me it is just easier to keep snakes that are more tolerant of that, although I do use humidity boxes inside the cages. Womas are great, as are spotted and children's pythons.
I keep several different species, and almost everything is a better feeder than ball pythons. Boas demand more respect than a ball when it comes to handling, but I really enjoy their extra level of intelligence. Another great video Jason!
Sometimes when I'm handling my boa I can see him notice that I'm looking at him and hell look me in the eyes and calmly watch me, not freezing in the "I'm scared" way. Spooks me every time
Like many others here I also agree with ball pythons. My first snake was a ball and I have 3 now and a BCI. Mostly my snakes are good feeders, but boy that first year when I was still getting the hang of things it was rough. They're good snakes, but you gotta be able to be patient and just leave em alone. Which for a pet usually isn't a plus because you want to handle them. My BCI on the other had hasn't met a meal he hasn't loved. He's a bit more intense than the balls, but feeding isn't a problem.
I got my first snake ever last September. I decided to adopt one someone had to get rid of, I live in Canada so not a Lot to choose from at pet stores anyways. my GF really wanted a a ball python, I decided on a colubrid of some kind. I found a 6 year old Hypo Brooks Florida Kingsnake. The way the guy took the pics made him look like he was tiny. He's an easy 6 feet, I was blown away at how much bigger he was than what I expected. I did a bunch of research, upgraded pretty much everything he came in / with. He was supposed to eat the day i got him so the guy suggested I try, he ate like it was nothing. He's shed 2 times, he hasn't even hissed at me once even when I took him out a couple days after he ate for the first time. He is everything I could ask for in a pet snake. I joined the reddit snakes thread, and all I see is posts of people asking how and why their balls wont eat. If I had gotten a ball python I know i would be struggling right now with the humidity, its cold this time of year and the air is dry as F. The Kingsnake doesn't care bout none of that, has got a huge bowl that he soaks in before he sheds and after he eats, the aspen he burrows in all day keeps the humidity around 37 and i worried about it till he had a perfect shed on his own while I was sleeping. I can't think of a single reason someone would wanna get rid of the guy i got. but hes mine now till he dies. I thank the lucky stars i didnt get the pain in the ass trendy snake and got the one that is perfect for me.
I started with a ball python and still have her, she's wonderful about feeding, but most of the ball pythons I have had are big pain in the butts. I agree with you, they are great as far as handleability for new keepers. BUT they can be such a major pain. I love the honesty of your channel. Thanks for your content!
It can be amazing snakes and I don't want to hate on them, but I don't think they're the best for beginner. I actually think they I'm more of a medium to Advanced hobbyist or at least somebody who has a lot of patience
100% agree with the Retic. They’ve been my favorite all around snakes because of how tame and friendly they can be, but you definitely have to know how to turn that feeding response off
Excellent video - I've been in the hobby for 33 years, and the subject of feeding is not strictly related to royal pythons. Look on any forum or group and newbies will be reporting their Hognose has goon off food, or cornsnake has stopped eating... every species has it's biorhythm and depending what the season is (breeding / bermation) they will either stop eating or binge feed. It's also down to the individual snake. I have a royal that has an appetite of a retic and has hardly missed a feed (other than when gravid). The learning and research is all part of the hobby. I too love boa's, and my 8' Jungle Pastel male has just taken his first meal in nearly three months as he was otherwise focused on finding a female....so even boa's which are commonly referred to as dustbins (trash cans for you guys that side of the pond) go off food at times.
I don't understand the "ball python does not eat everytime"-issue that many people have. It's completely normal for snakes not to eat at times. If the husbandry is OK like humidity, temperature, a hide and fresh water and the snake looks fine there is no reason to worry.
I know my snakes. My lesser pastel male stops eating in fall and starts eating in spring. After he rejects food for the first time, I try 2 times more and stop to annoy him after that point. In february I start to offer him food again when I feed my other ball pythons. When he takes the first rodent, I will miss one rodent for one of my other snakes. I go to my freezer and defrost one rodent more. What is the big problem?
Feeding issues are a topic for breeders, not so much for pet keepers. I don't understand why some people stop having ball pythons because of the feeding and leave the hobby. I won't leave my girlfriend over her eating habits as long as it doesn't cause serious problems. I think some people are just selfish, they want their snakes to always eat and their will is the only thing that matters.
@@andreheise1170 It boils down to lack of research - Plain and simple. If people researched the metabolism of the snake, the seasonal rainfall, humidity, and matched that to the breeding habits in the wild then it would all become clear.
What about a dwarf locality retic, I thought that they reach around about 6-10 feet or is that false? And if they really do get that big do you think they’d make a relatively good pet?
Real super dwarfs will get about that size. The problem is that most people selling dwarfs are not real dwarfs. They just have some tiny percentage in the lineage
Great video!! I breed ball pythons and I agree ball pythons aren't begginer snakes I think their more of a intermediate level hobbiest.
Haha I knew the Retic was gonna make the list. That was my beginner snake I bought it out of lack of knowledge. But I did great had no issues. Great video great content
Retic as a beginner snake? That's impressive! So glad it worked out, though. They really are one of my favorites! 🙂
Jason, we appreciate your candor and expertise. As a Rhode Islander with a penchant for tank tops, I feel like I can trust you. Buddy the Ball Python says hi!
Thank you for this post. I have Ball Pythons, 4 hatchlings and two adults. Two of the little ones need forced and assist feeding. Not for the faint of heart. I am new to the hobby and learned about Ball Pythons before getting one.
I really like this video! I definitely feel like any snake can be difficult for anyone if they don't know what they're getting into. I always wanted a reticulated python, but it took me years of dealing with various other types of snakes, a ton of research, and knowing i had the space for them before I actually got one and now I absolutely love my experiences with them :) I'm super glad I didn't start off with one though haha
Greeaat education video! Keep sharing your knowledge its spot on.
I agree with the ball python when I was looking to get my first pet snake I wanted one for so long of a specific morph but the more I thought about it I realized I probably don’t want something that would go off feed. I know it would stress me out and also there are snakes out there with easier requirements. I ended up going with a Mexican black kingsnake
Retics and burns are probably the worst . Most ppl don’t even give them the right size enclosure so sad
Lol I liked this one. I had a king snake as my first snake and as weird as it sounds I wouldn't recommend one as a first snake for a younger keeper. Just bcuz no one ever told me that they have a super strong feeding response. Everytime if take her out if get bite like 30 times. She just NVR would calm down
Bryan Suppa I’ve kind of wondered why they say king snakes are great beginner snakes also. I have never been bitten by any snake except my king snake.
King snakes are the only ones I hook train. I don't think they make a bad first snake. They can have a little attitude but they're cheap, good looking, and bullet proof as far as husbandry.
Great video!! Long story short I've been slacking on keeping up with TH-cam but couldn't have picked a better time to get back to it. I JUST bought a beautiful ball python, after watching your video I have decided to change his apartment completely!! Thank you for sharing! 😁❤
I‘m a boa guy as well!
Thanks for a good video. The boa you’re holding is a beauty!
THANK YOU! I was hardcore looking into BPs because I heard they were a magnificent beginner snake. Pfft... 20 videos into research and I completely dropped my BP phase. Ngl, they are amazing animals, but they're not my cup of tea. I think they are for a bit more experienced people when it comes to feeding strikes. They stress easily, and if you're looking for a more active snake or something you'll be able to see out of its hide more, Ball pythons are something you might want to pass on 😕. Great content! Glad to see someone actually putting that in the light!
Thank you!
This is the best Boa channel on TH-cam
Thank you so much!
@@JasonsExoticReptiles no worries brother. keep up the good work. looking forward to owning a boa in the future. im just starting on snakes and got a recommendation from a friend to just start with ball pythons. just to get experience what it is like owning snakes first before going to a boa constrictor which I am eager to own ahahaha.
fan from Malaysia bro.
Great advice. Wondering what type of boa you're holding in this? It's gorgeous. Is it a morph? Thanks!
Its a motley
Whenever I hear a snake expert talk about the reticulated python they only mention how long it gets but they never talked about how heavy the snake gets can anyone tell me how heavy can that snake get?
And out of all the pythons I always thought the Burmese was the heaviest some people say that the African rock can you tell me which is the heaviest and how long can these two snakes get?
I cant say on the african rock or the Burmese...I have a 12ft retic and it takes 2 to lift 3 would be alot easier. Cant give a number but they are really heavy
Especially baby Ball Pythons!! I've lost 3 in the past, due to not eating. I tried assist feeding them, but to no avail. My adults, and sub adults eat like a champ, every other week without fail. I'm keeping my collection under 10' for the reasons you stated. Boas are going to be my next snakes.
Vet? Let it be locked up untill it eats. Just for your safety if it starts to lose weight, do not go near it untill it eats or a vet has checked it.
I've always been a boa girl myself. I'm actually just getting my first ball python. They're pretty but again I still prefer boas... never had any problems with them.
my first snake is a ball python and i totally agree with you when they have feeding strikes. as a beginner, i was paranoid that she wasn’t eating for a month and then i gave her live and now she’s doing well. if i knew that would’ve happened, i would’ve gotten a corn snake or boa lmaooo
Regarding Retics, you can get a dwarf or super dwarf retic if you are worried about their big size. SD retics are between 6-9ft and the karompa localities are the smallest! average size 5-7ft.
I’m a boa girl thru and thru lol, I’ll never have a ball python, just me 👐🏻 My BCI is my favorite of all my pets, period. Perfect snake 🐍💕💖
Only started with a ball python. So far so good. Thanks for sharing brother.
Our B. P. Had all the feeding issues it’s so true and frustrating. Now at two years old you learn to feed every two weeks and this has made a big difference. If they don’t eat wait a week. A big snake soon becomes a liability and not much of a pet.
Another good vid Jason. Any chance of getting 1 of your Jason's exotics shirts,those are one of my favorites out there. Hell I'd take a couple
I'm working on getting some more made now. I might even do a pre-order so that I make sure I get everybody sizes.
I have 2 Ball Pythons. 1 male and 1 female. They are doing very well. Pass all of the routine checks when I take them to be seen by a reptile vet. But I do have to agree with you on Balls. I wouldn't recommend them for everyone. Getting a Boa next though. Did my research. Use to work with snakes and all. Actually miss it.
A video I'm interested in but not sure if youd want to do is going over recent changes to the hobby or our knowledge, like new methods of caging, morphs, BCI becoming BI, etc
Ball pythons are so overexposed in this hobby, I’ve gotten to the point where I’m tired of seeing them, and hearing about them. I used to have a couple of them, they were rehomed and I bought a carpet python. I’ll never go back. I love all creatures but man I’m just tired of ball pythons. Carpets almost never refused a meal!
So I've been keeping boas for about a decade. I've had a few burms as well. I recently have just fallen in love with a specific retic morph, and I reeeaaallly want this retic now. Would you recommend someone like me who would technically be a beginner keeper with a retic, but not with larger snakes in general, to go for it and get one?
If you feel your ready and have done the research then why not!
Funny enough, I've had he WORST luck with corn snakes, and the best luck with my ball python. Sometimes it's just like that. I'm blessed that mine won't skip meals unless she's in shed. I do wish she would sit in my lap once in a while though, like others say theirs do. Mine constantly wants to be moving around when she's out, that I have to laugh when people call their BPs "pet rocks" or say they never climb. Mine apparently never got the memo.
Just like me and leopard geckos. Don't let me watch them for even a week. It's just going to go bad.
My leopard gecko is full of hate and rage, lol. She growls at the slightest provocation. I love her anyway.
Everyone told me that I should get a ball python when we decided to get a snake for me and my 2 year old daughter. In my opinion, they're boring!! I feel bad saying that, but even they're habitat is basic. We have boas now and we love them!! ❤
It's really nice to hear that we're not the only people whose favorite snake isn't a ball python! They're all I hear about these days 😒
Ball pythons are cool snakes but again, they can be tricky at times
I’ve recently got a ball python I’ve got him to eat successfully once but the last few times he/she has gotten the fuzzy from the side and was un able to eat it after words any tips ? And also how can I find out the sex ?
Leave it alone for awhile it should figure it out If it's still there in the morning remove it . The spur size might give a clue larger would indicate a male.
My first snake was a ball python and she wasted so many rats being a very picky eater. Throwing away food is frustrating so I bought a jungle carpet python. If the ball doesnt eat my jungle will that's a win win.
I think another channel said a ball python makes a great pet after you have a boa or two because then you don't have to worry about feeders going to waste when they decide they don't want the rat.
They are cool but can be so frustrating
I honestly think that royals are very overrated.
There's so many amazing snakes but alot of people seem to fall into the following of others instead of developing there own opinion 🤔 it's a shame I think.
ball pythons called out live on stream
Had to do it gently.
@@JasonsExoticReptiles it's funny because I own three ball pythons and it's super easy for me to take care of them... but that's because I keep them in a rack and the natural humidity here (central Texas) is already pretty much perfect for them year round (stays smack on about 50% indoors, slightly higher in the racks). It's really easy to keep them consistent. However I can see how a beginner keeping one in a tank could have a lot of issues. I think they mostly get pushed a good beginner snakes because of their temperaments but I think nowadays I would recommend a corn for people that want an average size snake and a boa for people that want something a little bigger and more expensive to care for.
I agree with corn as a beginner. I had one at 11 years old. Lol. I got a ball python and had been keeping her in a tank. Just moved her to a tub to keep her humidity up this winter. In also in central Texas so during the summer I didnt really have to worry about it too much cuz it stayed up at 70 regardless lol
While you are right that retics in general are a more advanced species, there are dwarf localities that get to a much reduced and manageable size, though you have to get them from a reputable dwarf retic breeder (not mainland retic breeder) to make sure that they have still been bred for their small size when crossed with mainlands, because some breeders will breed a small male dwarf retic to a large mainland female to get a bunch of eggs, and because snakes tend to be closer to the size of their mother, then you may still end up with a large snake, even if it is labeled dwarf. Whereas if you breed a mainland male to a dwarf female, you get less eggs, but you end up with smaller snakes, and if you then repeat the process then you can get the mainland morphs in a dwarf snake, but you still have to be careful about who you buy them from. If your wondering, the best dwarf retic breeder I know of is Reach out Reptiles.
I'd prefer ball pythons. Not to big or too small and easier to care for. Humidity isn't a big problem, well at least imo. Plus they seem more docile.
Love the videos buddy!
Thank you!
Love the content! I need as many vids as possible my guy lol
Interesting opinion about the ball pythons...
I actually own 2 and got them at the same time male and female and I treat them the same, feed them at the same time (once a week)
And I've had them since February 2019 till now and In my personal experience (I know everyone has different experiences) my snakes has NEVER been picky!
My snakes will always eat when it's feeding time. When I first got them they were already 4 months maybe 1¼ - 1½ in long and I was feeding mice and when I switched to rats they still attacked and ate. I've even fed frozen/thawed if the store ran out of live that certain day and they still ate! If they're hungry they'll eat
They are now 2¼ inches almost 2½ and they eat hopper rats (X small) and soon I will move them up to Small.
The feeding issues really start to occur as they get into breeding season and sometimes you never get them. Sometimes you're just get the perfect snake
No1....ball python no2 ball python. No3 ball python and on and on and on👍👍👍👍oh almost forgot...nice video Jason!👍
Thank you Bro for telling the truth about keeping ball pythons. Even me i had a terible experince in keeping ball pythons. That's why i bought burmese python and sell my 2 bp's.
I started out keeping snakes I caught in the wild when I was a kid and almost all of them except for 2 where very defensive. It’s almost impossible to tame a wild snake unless you know what you are doing and even then it all depends on whether the animal trusts you. My dad is more of an expert in catching and correctly handling wild snakes ( Black Racers, Water Snakes, Black Rat Snakes, Rattlesnakes, Copperheads etc. But yes there is a big difference between keeping a wild snake vs buying one already bred in captivity
Ive had my first snake for 2 months now, a Ball Python and she is Perfect for me. She is calm and easy to handle, didnt eat for the first 3 weeks but now she eats like a champ. I love that she is not going to be super large. I Think size is a thing to consider.
Well, yep I agree wc can be a massive shift to captivity. Parasites infections are a given. Feeding is always on people's mind's. Reducing stress is key to feeding so mimic what they would get in the wild best you can after quarantine. Even in quarantine paper balls a pvc climbing stand for arboreal snakes. Humidity on point good ventilation. Temps to mimic day night cycle for home terrain.
That snake at the thumbnail is THICC as heck
Awesome. I love my central American boa! Cant wait to see that video. May be one of my smaller snakes but has a big personality!
I think I lucked out with my bp, he was given to me by a family member and needs a bit of work but dude does he eat like a boss! He makes it easy to help him! He’s a normal, not a fancy morph but he’s not fearful, not head shy and easy to handle.
I was not a bp girl but how could I say no to an easy animal in need. He spends his day in his hide but at night he comes out and lays on his slate, he has a low branch he climbs to get to another hide.
When he’s out he’s real docile and has changed a few peoples minds about snakes being horrible creatures!
I wouldn’t have him as my only snake but he’s definitely an awesome part of the collection.
Had problems with my ball pythons feeding. Learned to just wait it out.
Pretty much!
As much as I love my ball python, I never recommend them to first timers. For 4/5 of the year he’s great but every breeding season he goes on a hunger strike and I don’t even have a female ball python around that he can smell. I’ll definitely be sticking with boas in the future. Maybe in 15 or 20 years when I have a house and hit my midlife crisis I’ll get a burm lol.
I agree that wild caught are not for first-timers
Im a biker and a reptile enthusiast. My reptile collection is pretty big and like most reptile advocates, I dont want people buying reptiles that dont understand what they are getting into like motorcycling. Both can have serious consequences. I have many rescue animals that I now care for with my wife and its how it is in this hobby. The reason I bring up biking is that people dont see the inherent danger in poor decision making on an impulsive purchase. And I've seen the later become tragic sadly to many times. With coolness comes great responsibility. I mean that from the heart.
as a biker, i agree... and btw, Jason rides too. he's a really knowledgeable guy, and very concerned about both the animals and keepers.
I believe retics are fine as beginner snakes like you said they are intelligent and they do recongize there owner other than there size and feeding response and housing and feeding bill I would recommend I love em
They can be but they can be very intense and overwhelming as adults especially if people are smaller or don't have others to help
It's rare to actually get a ball python that's not captive bred if any at all, I've never had anything but good luck with my ball pythons however my 3 boas are all snippy and super aggressive and I spend 4-5 hrs a week between the 3.. not sure what I'm doing wrong