Could I keep a ball python at college?

Question

I am mainly concerned about the size of the tank. I plan on keeping it in my dorm and I want the smallest tank possible! I will be getting it most likely as a baby.

Is there anything you guys think is pertinent that I should know about keeping a snake at college?

Answer 1

You don't want the smallest viv possible and neither does a snake.  If you can't house it properly, then I wouldn't suggest buying one.  If you are that concerned about the size of the tank then buy a male python as they don't get as big as the females.  Am I right in thinking you have a comunal kitchen?  Would anyone freak out about having dead rodents in the freezer?  Also, I would make sure with your college you're allowed to do this.  If you shouldn't be doing this and you do, there is always some d*ckhead who will grass you up.  This could lead to you having to give up the snake which nobody wants to do or you being kicked out of college.

Answer 2

well I have a snake and if you buy a 30 gallon tank you will be set for life.But thats the smallest cage a fullgrown ball python can be in.  If you cant buy that then I would not bring the snake

Answer 3

Back when I was in college I kept two ball pythons in a "Vision Rack" system inside my dormroom. The guy I had as a room mate had a small children's python and he kept it too in a rack. Google about for websites that sell small rack systems with integrated heat (So you don't have to wire Flexwatt by yourself). Racks are small and convenient tub like systems that are secure for your snake, yet small enough that this is what breeders use to save up space inside a large collection room.  

If you are planning on keeping herps inside a small space, don't get a small tank that won't fullfill their housing needs, simply chuck out a few more dollars and keep it/them in a rack system.

Before you buy anything though, CHECK your college and dormroom policy, ask if pets are allowed at all, and more speciffically a small python or pet boa. If the dorm rooms are room-mate based, make sure you let the room arrangenmet office that you will have a pet snake with you.

Answer 4

I will be shocked to hear if there are more than a handful of schools (if any!) that allow snakes as pets in dorm rooms. Though, if you're planning on keeping it secretly I strongly suggest to make sure you find a top that is secure to prevent any escaping. You need a large water dish that needs to have water in it at all times so they can soak and of course the typical heat lamp/light requirements of a ball python. And for college.... I'd recommend feeding it frozen mice/pinkies when it gets to a bigger size because though you aren't getting the snake all the nutrients it should probably have, you can give it most of them and you won't have to worry about the smell of a freshly dead rodent in your room. You should also make sure any roomates are okay with this before hand, as they can report you if they want. I'd say all around you should probably wait until you aren't in a dorm to keep a snake.