After 24 years of being deathly afraid of snakes I got lucky enough to meet a friend who had a pet. Here to say I’ve been wrong about the little guys this whole time
In 1993 my dad got a berm. Never had a snake before. He ended up building a big enclosure for her in the garage and had her for 19 years. Never saw him cry for a cat or dog but he cried for her.
I recently lost my Savanah monitor. Tears were rolling! I don't even cry when people die! He's the first pet that I didn't just bury in the yard. I took him to a pet mortician. He was cremated and in a nice urn.
@testhim7773 Ol' Slanky is still doing great! His strength isn't what it used to be. Other than that, you'd never guess that he's an elderly snake. He is still just as active, vibrant, and friendly as he's always been.
Things people don’t tell you about ball pythons is how absolutely picky they can be. A single degree of difference in temperature or a different colored rat than usual and they’ll just straight up stop eating and think your trying poison them. They’re very dramatic at times but they are also incredibly sweet, just take that as warning! Source: I own a very dramatic ball python :,)
Lol yes! One of my boys is the best and has never refused a meal, but the other… He'll take the feeder just to leave it somewhere in his cage and go to the bathroom on it as if to say "this is what I think of your boring frozen food"
I've had my friend's ball python latch onto my neck once. We were eating at the same time (so it was entirely my fault). Lotus was a beaut, and after some calm prying, we were both fine lol. They are very temperamental tho
Yup, you got that right!!.. Some of them have a freaking attitude. They even try bitting you when their in a bad mood... But overall, as long as you understand them and take care of them, they are some of the most docile and sweet snakes! This summer, I am getting another one after losing mine 7 years ago and I'm trying to decide between a garter snake or a corn snake for my son because he wants to start his journey. I think he should get a little more experience before getting him a python because of that same reason!
If your in for the long haul and want a big snake get a BCI boa. They get 7 footish but if you get a baby by the time it’s any kinda big you will know what your doing and they are some of the calmest most chilled out snakes hands down.
True. I mean if you are REALLY in it for the longhaul, and have long term friends or a husband/wife/etc who can help you, you can even feasibly start with something like a Burmese python. Especially if you know someone else who keeps them to give you pointers. As huge as they (sometimes) can be, they are still more practical for apartment living than most large dog breeds, or even large lizards like monitors. Snakes in general are just very practical and awesome pets. Even the impractically large snakes are nowhere near as tough as owning other large reptiles such as alligators or asian water monitors. They dont need nearly as big of an enclosure or eat as often either.
Australian Spotted/Childrens Pythons are a grrat choice too. Not quite as thickly built as a Ball Python, they max out at 3-4 feet. They also eat WAY more reliability and are more active than Ball Pythons.
After owning several snakes, I definitely agree with these picks. The smallest is the corn snake, which is very easy to manage, and most pet shops will recommend them for first-time people. When I moved, the place didn't allow pets, so I had to surrender my bumblebee royal python. She was around 3 feet in length. Luckily, a pet shop owner took her and actually still has her. She's bigger now, but still the sweet nature snake I remember.
Let's not forget, the California Rosy Boa. And the Kenyan sand boa. The sweetest disposition I have ever known. And I have never been struck at. Once they start eating, they are great puppy-type personalities. Perfect 1st snake. And bonus, they stay in the 24” or less range.
I was gonna say, if any snake is perfect a rosy boa is since it’s the size of the corn snake , has the slower metabolism of a boa, live long and is just over all so much easier to care for then all the other snakes.
Ball pythons make great pets , but make sure when you take them out to always have an eye on them because they will climb on something then jump off cause they’re not smart
@@Mercedes_may yea i set mine on my desk once while i was cleaning his tank and then i heard a crashing noise and found him on the floor flipped upside down
Can confirm with the corn snake- had a lovely pair of them from the 3rd grade all the way till sophomore year. They were the sweetest and were so mild mannered, even took them for walks in the summer because they loved to just hang out on my shoulders.
Yes they sure can! It's always good practice to wash or sanitize your hands before handling your pet reptiles - especially if you keep multiple species.
my first snake was a picky hognose, it was hard getting it to eat and I thought that I would have to give him away but he did finally eat - so not the best choice for a begginer but still a good one
I’d definitely say you have it completely backwards. Cornsnakes are way too active for beginners. Ball pythons are hands down the best. I don’t know much about king snakes other than they’re basically a bigger cornsnake. Ball pythons are calm, almost always naturally docile, and they ball up and like to curl up on you while a corn snake does not stop moving the second you take them out. You have to dedicate time to your corn snake and give it all your attention when taking it out. Meanwhile I can get work done around the house while wearing my ball python
Exactly why I dident go the corn route. I loved that they got longer, but I wanted something that would hang out on me. I now have 2 BPs and they'll sit with me during a movie, gaming, whatever. Love them.
I still wouldn't recognize ball pythons for a beginner they can go off of food and when they do it can be up to a year...one of mine held out for 8mo no reason. Had to give the rodents to one of our other snakes when she wouldn't take the test rodent to see If they were back on food. Plus this species can be quite defensive had 5. Three of them were quite bitey much preferred working with my red tail boa...waaaaay less defensive (still not a beginner species since those get up to 8ft avg). Corn, kings, and hognose snakes would be great alternatives.
@@pjayjay. this goes for all reptiles and avian species it's a mechanism so that they aren't seen as an easy target since weakness usually means getting eaten. Usually one has to look for the physical signs...unfortunately going off food isn't a great point for determining health. Blowing bubbles or rasping noises can be a bad sign of health same with if you open the mouth and one sees excessive salivation that can also mean issues. It's important to know your animals baseline as well as one should always keep an eye for any irregular lumps, bumps, or marks which can mean anything from a fatty mass to a potential fungal infection. I know yes ball pythons can be rough and I do agree they hide, but it's important to understand this isn't just a ball python issue, but an issue for animals across the board.
@hound girl That's weird to hear you say 3 of the 5 were bitey? From everything I've looked up they are one of the more docile and less bitey of the snakes. Maybe you just taste good lol 😉
I'm not sure if ball pythons tend to be better eaters these days than 20 or 30 years ago considering how they are all captive bred now. My 28 year old bp goes off food occasionally and when laying Parthenogenesis eggs too, but eats all year round, the last few years at least.
Outside of Brumation periods usually when they're off food something needs adjusting inside of their enclosure or with their care. People revuff this but an experienced breeder told me this and I found it to be true.
Yes, I would recommend a Honduran Milk Snake. They are a larger more voracious species (easy to feed), and they come in a multitude of different morphs/phases.
Corn snakes for sure, but I’m not sure I’d recommend Ball Pythons or King snakes to someone who is getting their first reptile. Literal opposite ends of the feeding spectrum there. Can be super stressful for new owners who aren’t prepared for the hunger strikes or the constant feed response.
corn snakes are awesome. mine is a total sweetheart, great with people, never misses a meal, and not a biter. not to mention he's beautiful ❤ i also have a kingsnake and they are amazing animals too, but i will warn beginners that they are more likely to bite - including potentially biting themselves if they mistake their own tail as prey 😅
I agree that Western Hognose make great pets, but I left them off the list for beginners because babies are notorious for being picky eaters. I also agree that they are the cutest ;)
The Cali King I had was very chill, highly adaptable, and greedy AF during feeding time. Nothing fazed him and nothing ruined his appetite. Would highly recommend this species for beginners.
What breed would you recommend for someone that is absolutely terrified of snakes but wants to get over that fear? Backstory. When I was about 9 years old my stepdad had a snake that was about 13 foot long. It wrapped around me to keep warm but for some reason I interpreted it as trying to hurt me. Ever since then I struggle to be in the same room as one.
Boa constrictors are also very good beginner snakes, contrary to popular belief. Their care requirements are almost exactly the same as ball pythons, but they're even better due to the fact that they eat like boas, and aren't nearly as picky as ball pythons. The only potential negative is that they get a tiny bit bigger than most ball pythons, but that's not an issue as long as you're prepared with a proper size enclosure.
Iv never owned a ball python but iv heard they can be picky eaters which can be stressful or worrysome for the owner. My first snake was argentine boa. And iv owned 2 other south american boas after that. I looove boas. They are so chill relaxing and never turn down a meal.
Ball pythons, Burmese pythons, and red-tail boas are my favorite snakes. Ball pythons are the only snakes I've had that will go on hunger strikes, despite being in ideal conditions. My oldest ball python has gone as long as 9 months without taking a rat. I've had him for 27 years and he's still doing great. I'm almost certain he was originally wild-caught. He eats well between hunger strikes and has always maintained a healthy weight. He was barely underweight after the 9 month hunger strike. My captive-bred ball pythons have done shorter hunger strikes, but it's rare when their temperature, humidity, and shelter are adequate. When I had red-tail boas, I never had any issues with getting them to eat. I'll probably get another red-tail boa some day.
@@jiayujackchan6520 Recently just fed them, my banana morph ball python ate two, my smallest one, the first one mentioned in my comment ate one, and my largest one ate 2 frozen-thawed, a rat pup and a large fuzzy/hopper (shes fatter than any of the snakes in the house now) They love people, and they have baby eyeballs
@@jiayujackchan6520 Not anymore! I used to with my first one, she did NOT like frozen-thawed, so she's on live food right now ^^ It honestly depends on how humid & how their temperature is when you first try to feed them.
What’s crazy is that people say that hognoses are one of the best beginner snakes, but they are most definitely the hardest in my opinion. My friends have had hog noses. I have had hog noses and every single time they starve themselves and die. It’s really hard to get a juvenile and keep it alive.
In my opinion number one is boa constrictor. Rlly good personality. They eat super well unlike ball pythons. And they get to a impressive size but not too big
Yea some people are against big snakes being starter snakes for.....some reason. Some people even thing corn snakes are too big for beginners, and you need to get like a little garter snake first. Personally, I've always been against "beginner reptiles", these are living animals, not boardgame cards. You shouldn't be like "Oh, I'll just get this boring corn snake starter kit so I can move on to the Blood Python expansion pack", you should never get animals you don't care about just because you feel like that's what you have to get before you can move on to what you actually want. I know people who started off with Burmese Pythons for their first reptile. If what you want is say a Blood Python or an Emerald Tree Boa, just get a Blood Python or an Emerald Tree Boa and make sure to do your proper research on how to take care of it. Don't force yourself to get a corn snake or a king snake because "that's what the guy on the internet said I need to get for my first snake".
@@riversidereptileseducation6453 so I guess when they’re full grown it might hurt a bit but young I’m assuming you don’t really feel anything, already ordered the cage I’m pretty excited even though I’m slightly scared of snakes:p
Corn and king snakes are escape artists! Boas are great snakes due to their friendly personalities. They get big but some island types don't get any bigger than a ball python.
If your looking for a snake but don’t want one that gets to big. Look into a Kenya sand boa! These guys are really cute and only grow to be about 24- 36 inches as females and 15-18 inches as males. They are also are very handleable, they require substrate for their digging and burrowing and (always get frozen mice) that are juvenile
If you're looking for a big snake for your first snake, boa constrictors are great. They big, but not so big they can hurt you (6-ish feet for males, 8-ish feet for females). They are very easy to take care of, and extremely docile. First off, there are two different boa constrictors, BCI Common Boas from Central America, and BCC True Red Tail Boas from South America. Common Boas are, well, the common ones, you sometimes find them in your local Petsmart or Petco, in basically any dedicated Reptile Shop, and online in the thousands. Most morphs charge you thousands of dollars, but the standard wildtypes are in the 100-300 dollar range. They're a muddy brown color with a muddy white tail decorated in large copper brown spots. BCC True Red Tail Boas are rarer, they're available in dedicated reptile shops occasionally, but never in big brand pet stores, your best bet would be online or directly from a breeder, averaging 500-800 dollars. Their main color differs on the locality, a silver or milky grey color for Surinames, a sandy yellow color for Iquitos Peruvians, and a pink-ish or golden brown for Gyuanas. However, they share one physical trait in common, their clean white tails peppered in large maroon red spots, hence the name True Red Tail Boas. Common Boas are still....good looking, but True Red Tail Boas, especially Suriname locality Boas, are among the most beautiful snakes in the world. Housing is easy. Bare minimum, the length plus the width of the enclosure should equate the full length of the snake. You'll want at least a 120 gallon (4*2*2) enclosure for a male and at least a 180 gallon (6*2*2) for a female. However, if you have the money and the space never strive for the bare minimum. I'd recommend a 6*2*2 or larger for a Male and an 8*2*2 or larger for a female for your Boa to live it's best life, I like to give my snakes the ability to fully stretch out their full length in their enclosure. Care is easy too. The two different snakes will require different temperatures. Common Boas will require around 85 degrees in the cool side and 95 degrees on the warm side, while True Red Tail Boas need between 75-80 degrees and 85-90 degrees respectively. Humidity is the same though, 50-80%. Both species are incredibly docile (though I'd give a slight edge to the common boas, who can sometimes be a little less flighty), they're be hard pressed to bite and are slow and non darty, making them easy to handle. They're big, but not super big, meaning you can safely handle them alone. Overall, if you want a big snake for your first, a boa constrictor might be the best option for you.
I had a ball python named Bella. She would climb her branch every day when I came home and chill in my bun in top of my head for hours. She loved card games too. Just a gem of a snake. One day I will have snakes again, and I can't wait.
just a question, aren’t corn snakes more agile than ball pythons? i desperately want a snake but I’ve never owned one before, and I got told corn snakes but now im getting told ball pythons - reason being is because they are less agile and easier to handle? just a question! :)
As someone who owns both a ball python and a cornsnake, I can confirm that they’re pretty easy. Coincidentally, the next snake I want is actually a species of Kingsnake, a Black Mexican Kingsnake to be specific
We had a ball python for a long time. We named him Harry because I was such a big Harrp Potter fan lol. He lived for 7 years with us. He was already a year or 2 when we got him. He was such a good snake. We'd let him out all the time and he'd immediately find someone and want up their shirt. He loved curling up on my stomach while I'd watch TV or something. I miss him alot. Probably the only snake I'll ever like.
Where I live, I am lucky because I can get free pet snakes. Sometimes a few grass snakes will wonder in our house, sometimes we might find a ring necked snake around as well. Very cute, harmless, and make great pets if you know what you are doing. We also have corn snakes and king snakes, but we don’t see them as much as we do venomous snakes like Cotton mouths and rattlers.
If petco or petsmart snakes won't eat live meals, they'll give them away for free. My dad's friend collected free petco and petsmart snakes without paying a penny for them.
My first snake is a corn snake called smudge. I got him when he was one and have had him for a year and a half and I agree, corn snakes are amazing beginner snakes
Do you think the Mexican Kingsnake has the same temperament as the other Kingsnakes? I've seen several vids with the Mexican kingsnakes being a lil bitey?😬 and that might ruin it for my Daughter lol
California king snakes can have attitudes sometimes. I would say the garter snake is the up there with the corn snake. The garter is a hardy snake that will eat just about anything so that makes it very easy to take care of plus they don't need some giant enclosure either.
I have both a California King and a Ball Python!! Both are fantastic and here are some things to know: -Both species average ~4 ft, and must have an enclosure to accommodate -Kingsnakes are known to be INCREDIBLY good eaters, but often are not the BEST handling snakes. I’ve had my fair share of bites -Pythons are known to be picky eaters, so don’t give up if it refuses food at first! They are quite docile and good with handling though Great first snakes in my opinion!
Yk some people say snakes aren’t as good as other pets bc they dont show emotion well my ball python sausage she has shown that she loves me she likes to chill with me and i like to take her outside and let her play in the yard and climb a lil oaktree we have shes just amazing and shes my bestest friend ❤
If you want something similar to a king snake but larger and more active seriously consider a bull snake. Bull snakes are really fun and other than needing a bigger cage almost 1:1 care with a California king snake just liking it a bit cooler (hot end at like 80-86°f and a 2*4ft cage).
Imo ball pythons and hognose, easy to handle even playful or calm. my corn not so nice, been bitten by him and squirmy but can be entertaining. Mine likes to mimic my actions.
Depends on the species. I would recommend a Honduran for a beginner. They are regularly available, they come in a large variety of color morphs, they get large and are typically friendly if you work with them, and most importantly - they are reliable eaters.
How do you rate the rough green snake? My 15 year old sister has been begging for one and we're thinking about getting her one for her birthday, this will be her first personal snake (I have a 17-year-old ball python that she helped me with)
Best beginner.... & Pet Snake dont even go together in my book! Like my Grandma used to say......." LEAVE THEM THANGS IN THE WILD WHERE THEY BELONG" 😮😮😮😮
BCC over BP all day. Simply for the fact that BP's can be picky eaters, which can scare newbies. And let's be honest, BP's can be perceived as "boring" to people new to keeping snakes.
I used to have a kingsnake, it was very chill and friendly, great eater, and very active and handleable, the only thing about it was that he was very nippy and at one point tried to swallow my thumb, he usually bite me if he got startled
This is a big debate but i agree because it was my sequence of snakes growing up and i see no better snake to star with because these 3 are hardy, handleable, and often have cool temperaments and ate usually bity
After 24 years of being deathly afraid of snakes I got lucky enough to meet a friend who had a pet. Here to say I’ve been wrong about the little guys this whole time
Cool to hear! They are basically little noodles with a head😂
Hey that's great! ❤
@@yannik8271no saying that is like saying all cats make good pets. When in reality most do not.
@@gregsmith141 I've never had a bad pet cat lol
That's awesome! For some reason I have ZERO fear if snakes even wild ones. Ever since I was little never on ounce of fear towards the noodles
In 1993 my dad got a berm. Never had a snake before. He ended up building a big enclosure for her in the garage and had her for 19 years. Never saw him cry for a cat or dog but he cried for her.
I've had my oldest ball python for 27 years. I've had plenty of pets over the years, but that snake is going to break my heart when his time comes.
I recently lost my Savanah monitor. Tears were rolling! I don't even cry when people die! He's the first pet that I didn't just bury in the yard. I took him to a pet mortician. He was cremated and in a nice urn.
@@Brandon_Nelson92I hope you guys are still doing well and together!!
@testhim7773 Ol' Slanky is still doing great! His strength isn't what it used to be. Other than that, you'd never guess that he's an elderly snake. He is still just as active, vibrant, and friendly as he's always been.
@@Brandon_Nelson92 aww man I love to hear that I hope you guys have many more years together 💕
Things people don’t tell you about ball pythons is how absolutely picky they can be. A single degree of difference in temperature or a different colored rat than usual and they’ll just straight up stop eating and think your trying poison them. They’re very dramatic at times but they are also incredibly sweet, just take that as warning!
Source: I own a very dramatic ball python :,)
I as well have a ball python. I swear he makes noises just to stress me out. Never has respiratory issues but randomly sounds it
Lol yes! One of my boys is the best and has never refused a meal, but the other… He'll take the feeder just to leave it somewhere in his cage and go to the bathroom on it as if to say "this is what I think of your boring frozen food"
I have an adult male ball python that's an absolute garbage disposal 🤣
I've had my friend's ball python latch onto my neck once. We were eating at the same time (so it was entirely my fault). Lotus was a beaut, and after some calm prying, we were both fine lol. They are very temperamental tho
Yup, you got that right!!.. Some of them have a freaking attitude. They even try bitting you when their in a bad mood... But overall, as long as you understand them and take care of them, they are some of the most docile and sweet snakes! This summer, I am getting another one after losing mine 7 years ago and I'm trying to decide between a garter snake or a corn snake for my son because he wants to start his journey. I think he should get a little more experience before getting him a python because of that same reason!
Oh. I was thinking king cobra, inland taipan, and death adder.
Don't forget the Gaboon viper!
@@NikkyTikkiTavithe murder slug
@@NikkyTikkiTaviEastern Diamondback Rattlesnake as an honorable mention
Black mamba: me too😂
Boomslang too!
Video was too complicated, so I ordered something called a coastal taipan. Seems like a cool dude to chill with.
I would have gone with the Inland Taipan personally. Great for people with insomnia.
😂@@Darby0642
Nah.. I'll order king cobra instead
Guy like to hiss a lot.
If your in for the long haul and want a big snake get a BCI boa. They get 7 footish but if you get a baby by the time it’s any kinda big you will know what your doing and they are some of the calmest most chilled out snakes hands down.
True. I mean if you are REALLY in it for the longhaul, and have long term friends or a husband/wife/etc who can help you, you can even feasibly start with something like a Burmese python. Especially if you know someone else who keeps them to give you pointers. As huge as they (sometimes) can be, they are still more practical for apartment living than most large dog breeds, or even large lizards like monitors. Snakes in general are just very practical and awesome pets. Even the impractically large snakes are nowhere near as tough as owning other large reptiles such as alligators or asian water monitors. They dont need nearly as big of an enclosure or eat as often either.
@@alexcrowder1673 STOP GIVING OUT THIS ADVICES??
nice
Do you have any recommendations for snakes that share one brain cell?
Can't agree more I got a ball and was super excited but quickly found myself like okay I could have went bigger now I have several including a boa
Australian Spotted/Childrens Pythons are a grrat choice too. Not quite as thickly built as a Ball Python, they max out at 3-4 feet. They also eat WAY more reliability and are more active than Ball Pythons.
After owning several snakes, I definitely agree with these picks. The smallest is the corn snake, which is very easy to manage, and most pet shops will recommend them for first-time people. When I moved, the place didn't allow pets, so I had to surrender my bumblebee royal python. She was around 3 feet in length. Luckily, a pet shop owner took her and actually still has her. She's bigger now, but still the sweet nature snake I remember.
What do you think of pacific gopher?
@@325hpls1If you look up the name on RUclips they comments will probably have a lot of people sharing their opinions on it
Let's not forget, the California Rosy Boa. And the Kenyan sand boa. The sweetest disposition I have ever known. And I have never been struck at. Once they start eating, they are great puppy-type personalities. Perfect 1st snake. And bonus, they stay in the 24” or less range.
I was gonna say, if any snake is perfect a rosy boa is since it’s the size of the corn snake , has the slower metabolism of a boa, live long and is just over all so much easier to care for then all the other snakes.
@@User39694I’ve always wanted one so bad
Ball pythons make great pets , but make sure when you take them out to always have an eye on them because they will climb on something then jump off cause they’re not smart
mom! mom! watch this! mom!
Can confirm! I can't set mine on high places because he will just leap into the void😂😂😂😂
@@Mercedes_may yea i set mine on my desk once while i was cleaning his tank and then i heard a crashing noise and found him on the floor flipped upside down
@@iamvoidnoodle oh nooo!
@@Mercedes_may hes was fine he kinda just didn’t want to let go of my arm afterwards cause he probably was scared 😭
Can confirm with the corn snake- had a lovely pair of them from the 3rd grade all the way till sophomore year. They were the sweetest and were so mild mannered, even took them for walks in the summer because they loved to just hang out on my shoulders.
How did they survive this? I get you were a kid but no snake wants to go out for walks 😂
@@CeltsryanMy snakes love the natural heat and light
@@Celtsryanfrom my understanding of the comment, the snake would chill out on their shoulders while they did the walking lol
Be careful with King snakes. If they smell another snake’s scent on you, they may bite.
Yes they sure can! It's always good practice to wash or sanitize your hands before handling your pet reptiles - especially if you keep multiple species.
Corns and Kings are fantastic first pet snakes! 🐍
my first snake was a picky hognose, it was hard getting it to eat and I thought that I would have to give him away but he did finally eat - so not the best choice for a begginer but still a good one
I’d definitely say you have it completely backwards. Cornsnakes are way too active for beginners. Ball pythons are hands down the best. I don’t know much about king snakes other than they’re basically a bigger cornsnake. Ball pythons are calm, almost always naturally docile, and they ball up and like to curl up on you while a corn snake does not stop moving the second you take them out. You have to dedicate time to your corn snake and give it all your attention when taking it out. Meanwhile I can get work done around the house while wearing my ball python
Exactly why I dident go the corn route. I loved that they got longer, but I wanted something that would hang out on me. I now have 2 BPs and they'll sit with me during a movie, gaming, whatever. Love them.
I also think any python is 100x cooler. I’ve had two
I still wouldn't recognize ball pythons for a beginner they can go off of food and when they do it can be up to a year...one of mine held out for 8mo no reason. Had to give the rodents to one of our other snakes when she wouldn't take the test rodent to see If they were back on food. Plus this species can be quite defensive had 5. Three of them were quite bitey much preferred working with my red tail boa...waaaaay less defensive (still not a beginner species since those get up to 8ft avg). Corn, kings, and hognose snakes would be great alternatives.
And they are really good at hiding things. Like infections and sicknesses.
@@pjayjay. this goes for all reptiles and avian species it's a mechanism so that they aren't seen as an easy target since weakness usually means getting eaten. Usually one has to look for the physical signs...unfortunately going off food isn't a great point for determining health. Blowing bubbles or rasping noises can be a bad sign of health same with if you open the mouth and one sees excessive salivation that can also mean issues. It's important to know your animals baseline as well as one should always keep an eye for any irregular lumps, bumps, or marks which can mean anything from a fatty mass to a potential fungal infection.
I know yes ball pythons can be rough and I do agree they hide, but it's important to understand this isn't just a ball python issue, but an issue for animals across the board.
@hound girl That's weird to hear you say 3 of the 5 were bitey? From everything I've looked up they are one of the more docile and less bitey of the snakes. Maybe you just taste good lol 😉
I'm not sure if ball pythons tend to be better eaters these days than 20 or 30 years ago considering how they are all captive bred now.
My 28 year old bp goes off food occasionally and when laying Parthenogenesis eggs too, but eats all year round, the last few years at least.
Outside of Brumation periods usually when they're off food something needs adjusting inside of their enclosure or with their care. People revuff this but an experienced breeder told me this and I found it to be true.
Love your cutie sneks 🐍 but laughing because I got here watching videos on Python coding for beginners
Instructions too vague … Gaboon Viper arrives monday
Do you recommend a milk snake to be a good beginner snake
Yes, I would recommend a Honduran Milk Snake. They are a larger more voracious species (easy to feed), and they come in a multitude of different morphs/phases.
I agree with him. I’m a keeper myself. There a branch off of king snakes actually. And they have lots more morphs than Californians
I remember I had a “corn snake”.. It was 4 inches thick, and longer than I was tall.
*I don’t think that was a corn snake.*
It was probably a species of python or boa
Probably a Bull snake
California kings are some of the meanest snakes I've ever had. Milk snake should be there.
They can be bitey and they are incredible escape artists also.
Those were some BEAUTIFUL Cali Kings
Corn snakes for sure, but I’m not sure I’d recommend Ball Pythons or King snakes to someone who is getting their first reptile. Literal opposite ends of the feeding spectrum there. Can be super stressful for new owners who aren’t prepared for the hunger strikes or the constant feed response.
What about hognose snakes?
This might’ve been asked before, but how do you feel about Hognose snakes as a beginner reptile?
No
Yes they can be good from what I have heard
corn snakes are awesome. mine is a total sweetheart, great with people, never misses a meal, and not a biter. not to mention he's beautiful ❤
i also have a kingsnake and they are amazing animals too, but i will warn beginners that they are more likely to bite - including potentially biting themselves if they mistake their own tail as prey 😅
number one imo has got to be hognose snakes, once you get past the bluff strikes they are the easiest to take care of and the cutest too
I agree that Western Hognose make great pets, but I left them off the list for beginners because babies are notorious for being picky eaters. I also agree that they are the cutest ;)
My beginner and only snake i ever had/have is a albino milk snake👍🏻
The Cali King I had was very chill, highly adaptable, and greedy AF during feeding time. Nothing fazed him and nothing ruined his appetite.
Would highly recommend this species for beginners.
What breed would you recommend for someone that is absolutely terrified of snakes but wants to get over that fear?
Backstory. When I was about 9 years old my stepdad had a snake that was about 13 foot long. It wrapped around me to keep warm but for some reason I interpreted it as trying to hurt me. Ever since then I struggle to be in the same room as one.
There are adorable
And I truly LOVE our cornsnake. Just the best!!
How about hognose? Where are those cuties on the list of best beginner snakes.
Boa constrictors are also very good beginner snakes, contrary to popular belief. Their care requirements are almost exactly the same as ball pythons, but they're even better due to the fact that they eat like boas, and aren't nearly as picky as ball pythons. The only potential negative is that they get a tiny bit bigger than most ball pythons, but that's not an issue as long as you're prepared with a proper size enclosure.
Iv never owned a ball python but iv heard they can be picky eaters which can be stressful or worrysome for the owner. My first snake was argentine boa. And iv owned 2 other south american boas after that. I looove boas. They are so chill relaxing and never turn down a meal.
Ball pythons, Burmese pythons, and red-tail boas are my favorite snakes.
Ball pythons are the only snakes I've had that will go on hunger strikes, despite being in ideal conditions. My oldest ball python has gone as long as 9 months without taking a rat. I've had him for 27 years and he's still doing great. I'm almost certain he was originally wild-caught. He eats well between hunger strikes and has always maintained a healthy weight. He was barely underweight after the 9 month hunger strike.
My captive-bred ball pythons have done shorter hunger strikes, but it's rare when their temperature, humidity, and shelter are adequate.
When I had red-tail boas, I never had any issues with getting them to eat. I'll probably get another red-tail boa some day.
I have seen before the cutest corn snake noodle and I loved him. 😂
I absolutely love king snakes
I have two corn shakes. I’m a basic chica. No regrets. They’re awesome, spicey noodles 😂
Omg why are u all convincing me to get a snake
I have a ball python shes adorable:33
I got a ball python 2 weeks ago, and needless to say they are fantabulous for beginners.
Update on this!! Im up to 3 now and they are lovely
@@Mystery_Glasss we need more updates
@@jiayujackchan6520 Recently just fed them, my banana morph ball python ate two, my smallest one, the first one mentioned in my comment ate one, and my largest one ate 2 frozen-thawed, a rat pup and a large fuzzy/hopper
(shes fatter than any of the snakes in the house now)
They love people, and they have baby eyeballs
@@Mystery_Glasss wow cool! Do you have any problems feeding them?
@@jiayujackchan6520 Not anymore! I used to with my first one, she did NOT like frozen-thawed, so she's on live food right now ^^ It honestly depends on how humid & how their temperature is when you first try to feed them.
im getting a corn snake soon and im so exited
I love and have them all
CORN SNAKES ARE SO CUTE
What’s crazy is that people say that hognoses are one of the best beginner snakes, but they are most definitely the hardest in my opinion. My friends have had hog noses. I have had hog noses and every single time they starve themselves and die. It’s really hard to get a juvenile and keep it alive.
Where do hognose snakes fit in?
Corn snakes are fantastic
I wish I had a snake so impressive
So do I, but my mom is afraid of snakes. :( 🐍
I want a snake🐍🐍🐍🐍
In my opinion number one is boa constrictor. Rlly good personality. They eat super well unlike ball pythons. And they get to a impressive size but not too big
Yea some people are against big snakes being starter snakes for.....some reason. Some people even thing corn snakes are too big for beginners, and you need to get like a little garter snake first.
Personally, I've always been against "beginner reptiles", these are living animals, not boardgame cards. You shouldn't be like "Oh, I'll just get this boring corn snake starter kit so I can move on to the Blood Python expansion pack", you should never get animals you don't care about just because you feel like that's what you have to get before you can move on to what you actually want. I know people who started off with Burmese Pythons for their first reptile. If what you want is say a Blood Python or an Emerald Tree Boa, just get a Blood Python or an Emerald Tree Boa and make sure to do your proper research on how to take care of it. Don't force yourself to get a corn snake or a king snake because "that's what the guy on the internet said I need to get for my first snake".
@@metaknight115 yeah
So funny I had all three of these at one time as pets...my corn snake lived 19 years....
How much does it hurt if you get bit by a corn snake?
I don't have acorn snake yet(I'll get one soon) but as far as I know you basically won't even notice it if it bites you
@@waixy230 ok cool, I’m getting one for my daughter soon and I just don’t want it hurting her if it does get her. Thank you
I had one, doesn't hurt at all, just feels a bit funny 😂
Typically not painful but it depends on the size of the snake.
@@riversidereptileseducation6453 so I guess when they’re full grown it might hurt a bit but young I’m assuming you don’t really feel anything, already ordered the cage I’m pretty excited even though I’m slightly scared of snakes:p
🎉❤❤🎉
I used to be scared of snakes vut niw i thinl there cool
Corn and king snakes are escape artists! Boas are great snakes due to their friendly personalities. They get big but some island types don't get any bigger than a ball python.
Love my ball pythons!
Yea my Joxer was the best first choice snake I could get . I love my corn he is so sweet, handsome and gentle ❤
All 3 are faves and all three are cuddle monsters❤
If your looking for a snake but don’t want one that gets to big. Look into a Kenya sand boa! These guys are really cute and only grow to be about 24- 36 inches as females and 15-18 inches as males. They are also are very handleable, they require substrate for their digging and burrowing and (always get frozen mice) that are juvenile
If you're looking for a big snake for your first snake, boa constrictors are great. They big, but not so big they can hurt you (6-ish feet for males, 8-ish feet for females). They are very easy to take care of, and extremely docile.
First off, there are two different boa constrictors, BCI Common Boas from Central America, and BCC True Red Tail Boas from South America. Common Boas are, well, the common ones, you sometimes find them in your local Petsmart or Petco, in basically any dedicated Reptile Shop, and online in the thousands. Most morphs charge you thousands of dollars, but the standard wildtypes are in the 100-300 dollar range. They're a muddy brown color with a muddy white tail decorated in large copper brown spots.
BCC True Red Tail Boas are rarer, they're available in dedicated reptile shops occasionally, but never in big brand pet stores, your best bet would be online or directly from a breeder, averaging 500-800 dollars. Their main color differs on the locality, a silver or milky grey color for Surinames, a sandy yellow color for Iquitos Peruvians, and a pink-ish or golden brown for Gyuanas. However, they share one physical trait in common, their clean white tails peppered in large maroon red spots, hence the name True Red Tail Boas. Common Boas are still....good looking, but True Red Tail Boas, especially Suriname locality Boas, are among the most beautiful snakes in the world.
Housing is easy. Bare minimum, the length plus the width of the enclosure should equate the full length of the snake. You'll want at least a 120 gallon (4*2*2) enclosure for a male and at least a 180 gallon (6*2*2) for a female. However, if you have the money and the space never strive for the bare minimum. I'd recommend a 6*2*2 or larger for a Male and an 8*2*2 or larger for a female for your Boa to live it's best life, I like to give my snakes the ability to fully stretch out their full length in their enclosure.
Care is easy too. The two different snakes will require different temperatures. Common Boas will require around 85 degrees in the cool side and 95 degrees on the warm side, while True Red Tail Boas need between 75-80 degrees and 85-90 degrees respectively. Humidity is the same though, 50-80%.
Both species are incredibly docile (though I'd give a slight edge to the common boas, who can sometimes be a little less flighty), they're be hard pressed to bite and are slow and non darty, making them easy to handle. They're big, but not super big, meaning you can safely handle them alone. Overall, if you want a big snake for your first, a boa constrictor might be the best option for you.
I had a ball python named Bella. She would climb her branch every day when I came home and chill in my bun in top of my head for hours. She loved card games too. Just a gem of a snake. One day I will have snakes again, and I can't wait.
aren't you scared bella will bite you and poison you and die one day?
@@amanuelyimer3739 ball pythons are not poisonous.
still snakes are scary especially when it is 2 to 3 meters , I feel it would choke me to death especially when I am asleep@@cynthiacooksey5335
best beginner pet:
snek, there to cute!
just a question, aren’t corn snakes more agile than ball pythons?
i desperately want a snake but I’ve never owned one before, and I got told corn snakes but now im getting told ball pythons - reason being is because they are less agile and easier to handle?
just a question! :)
The little tongue flick in the beginning, mint
As someone who owns both a ball python and a cornsnake, I can confirm that they’re pretty easy. Coincidentally, the next snake I want is actually a species of Kingsnake, a Black Mexican Kingsnake to be specific
We had a ball python for a long time. We named him Harry because I was such a big Harrp Potter fan lol. He lived for 7 years with us. He was already a year or 2 when we got him. He was such a good snake. We'd let him out all the time and he'd immediately find someone and want up their shirt. He loved curling up on my stomach while I'd watch TV or something. I miss him alot. Probably the only snake I'll ever like.
Where I live, I am lucky because I can get free pet snakes. Sometimes a few grass snakes will wonder in our house, sometimes we might find a ring necked snake around as well. Very cute, harmless, and make great pets if you know what you are doing. We also have corn snakes and king snakes, but we don’t see them as much as we do venomous snakes like Cotton mouths and rattlers.
If petco or petsmart snakes won't eat live meals, they'll give them away for free. My dad's friend collected free petco and petsmart snakes without paying a penny for them.
My first snake is a corn snake called smudge. I got him when he was one and have had him for a year and a half and I agree, corn snakes are amazing beginner snakes
That’s such a cute name
Thank you for the info
Ty for help now my got my pet snake ivy!!❤❤😊😊
Btw right after I saw this😅
My boy Drake the Cornsnake on the right. Hell yeah.
Do you think the Mexican Kingsnake has the same temperament as the other Kingsnakes? I've seen several vids with the Mexican kingsnakes being a lil bitey?😬 and that might ruin it for my Daughter lol
I've never had a snake before but think it would be really cool someday. I've always wanted a western hognose. Would they make a good first snake?
California king snakes can have attitudes sometimes. I would say the garter snake is the up there with the corn snake. The garter is a hardy snake that will eat just about anything so that makes it very easy to take care of plus they don't need some giant enclosure either.
I have both a California King and a Ball Python!! Both are fantastic and here are some things to know:
-Both species average ~4 ft, and must have an enclosure to accommodate
-Kingsnakes are known to be INCREDIBLY good eaters, but often are not the BEST handling snakes. I’ve had my fair share of bites
-Pythons are known to be picky eaters, so don’t give up if it refuses food at first! They are quite docile and good with handling though
Great first snakes in my opinion!
Does the California King snake eat other snakes?
Yk some people say snakes aren’t as good as other pets bc they dont show emotion well my ball python sausage she has shown that she loves me she likes to chill with me and i like to take her outside and let her play in the yard and climb a lil oaktree we have shes just amazing and shes my bestest friend ❤
I love the corn snake he looks like corn my dog with god confused and that it was corn moving😂
Hey mr. i'm really glad with your videos, they're really helpful. Nonetheless i want to say i'm from kurdistan, how can i get snakes ?
Ball pythons are awesome
Corn snakes are wicked short tempered dudes in the wild...
Corn or milk snake are good
My first snake was a corn snake. Got her for my 11th birthday. Still have her today, so she is about 24 years old abouts. Wonderful snake 🐍
Python is good for beginner coding and beginner pet snake
If you want something similar to a king snake but larger and more active seriously consider a bull snake. Bull snakes are really fun and other than needing a bigger cage almost 1:1 care with a California king snake just liking it a bit cooler (hot end at like 80-86°f and a 2*4ft cage).
Yes, I agree. Bull Snakes, Gopher Snakes, and Pine Snakes are also great options.
Imo ball pythons and hognose, easy to handle even playful or calm. my corn not so nice, been bitten by him and squirmy but can be entertaining. Mine likes to mimic my actions.
My dad just hates snakes. If I had one it would end up on the dinner table lol
What about milk snakes, could they also be good first snakes?
Depends on the species. I would recommend a Honduran for a beginner. They are regularly available, they come in a large variety of color morphs, they get large and are typically friendly if you work with them, and most importantly - they are reliable eaters.
I can agree with this. Personal biases aside.
How do you rate the rough green snake? My 15 year old sister has been begging for one and we're thinking about getting her one for her birthday, this will be her first personal snake (I have a 17-year-old ball python that she helped me with)
Best beginner.... & Pet Snake dont even go together in my book! Like my Grandma used to say......." LEAVE THEM THANGS IN THE WILD WHERE THEY BELONG" 😮😮😮😮
😅 I love old people
BCC over BP all day. Simply for the fact that BP's can be picky eaters, which can scare newbies. And let's be honest, BP's can be perceived as "boring" to people new to keeping snakes.
YES! The corn.
Agreed 100%🤠🤠🤠🤠. But after about a dozen corn snakes, I decided that I would trade them all in for a Loucystic ball python.-“ATTICUS“😋😋😋
I used to have a kingsnake, it was very chill and friendly, great eater, and very active and handleable, the only thing about it was that he was very nippy and at one point tried to swallow my thumb, he usually bite me if he got startled
How did the ball pythons get?
Corn snakes are great, I love mine but they are mini escape artists, as I sit here he's behind me probing the sliding glass door for weak spots.
The sand boas are amazing pets too!
This is a big debate but i agree because it was my sequence of snakes growing up and i see no better snake to star with because these 3 are hardy, handleable, and often have cool temperaments and ate usually bity
So cool!!!
I’m getting a Columbian boa, I know they’re basic but they’re all I’ve had and I like them
My first snake is a pine snake and they're awesome ! so easy to keep ! I lover her so much
I was thinking something a bit less aggressive? What about a black mamba or king cobra?
I "inherited" a 6ft Red Tail boa from a friend. was my first pet snake. She was easy and awesome.