Ball Python vs Garter Snake
Side-by-side care comparison to help you choose.
| Ball Python | Garter Snake | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
| Adult size | 3-5 feet | 18-30 inches |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 6-10 years |
| Min enclosure | 40 gallon breeder / 36x18x18 in (minimum), 4x2x2 ft recommended | 40 gallon breeder (36x18x18 in) |
| Basking temp | 88-92°F | 85-90°F |
| Humidity | 50-60% (increase to 65-70% during shed) | 40-60% |
| UVB | Optional - T5 HO 5.0 / Ferguson zone 2 (beneficial but not mandatory) | Optional - low level UVB (e.g., T5 HO 5.0) beneficial |
| Diet | Appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents: pinky mice to medium rats, once every 1-2 weeks depending on age and size. | Earthworms, fish, and rodents; feed juveniles every 5-7 days, adults every 7-10 days. |