Ok I will start off by stating I have tried to read every bit of information to make sure I am doing the right things for my new baby but I think I might have gone into information overload and also I have come across some contradicting information so I figured where better to clarify than here.

I have a 2 1/2 foot cute and cuddly ball python that I have acquired from a friend who could no longer care for him in her present situation. This is what he came with- a tank (I think about 30ish gal? I'm not really sure as there are no markings and I am not too good at estimating), a huge log hide that takes up the majority of his space, a plastic bowl for water, a thermometer and hydrometer that sticks on the back wall about halfway up, and some very dirty reptile bark. I have since added a heat lamp that sits on top of the cage on one half and a red heat emitting bulb (not sure if this is the correct kind of light to use but I needed to get something in there as he had not had a lamp for at least 2 months), I have added another small dish of water to try to help the humidity (it currently reads at 40ish percent), and cleaned the tank and put in new bark.

I'm curious though, how do I know what size enclosure to have him in and what kind of accessories he needs (ex-long branches and the like) and how can I raise his humidity? I am currently misting a few times a day. Also, generally how long do they get and how big around? All of the information I have read state that they are generally "smaller" than most of the other pythons but have not really given me an accurate size range. Also, how do I know if he is in need of vet care? Is this something that is relatively obvious?

I handle him everyday with the exception of the few days after he has eaten. I have not noticed anything abnormal so far. His eyes seem clear, his skin is smooth without any bites or scratches or anything like that. He has eaten just fine since I have gotten him. Is there anything else I am missing? Any words of wisdom? I will admit I was not exactly prepared for the new arrival but I decided I couldn't do any worse that what he was already in. (it was bad...really bad) Thanks in advance for the help! (and sorry this post was so long!)

~R~

Measure the tanks size and we can tell you what gallon capacity it is.
The largest of ball python is about 6 ft but most end up in the 4-5 ft range and are about as big around as a softball at the biggest area.
If your are talking about the little round dial gauges, ditch them. they are useless. Go to the hardware store or garden center and get a you a digital one.
They actually like their hiding places to be a bit on the small cramped side! They are most comfortable if they are able to touch on 3 sides.
Branches aren't a necessity as BPs are mostly a terrestrial snake. They may climb a bit but it is not required.
A trip to the vet for a check up is always a good idea or at least take a fresh fecal sample in for a parasite check.

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Merlin,
What's Life Without A Little Magic!