Is special “reptile sand” a decent substrate for a jungle carpet python?
Use Cypress mulch. It holds humidity very well, which aids in shed. If you find cypress to be too expensive, aspen works well too. Sand is a hassle, and not appropriate for a semi arboreal reptile that has moderate humidity requirements. “Reptile sand”, especially calci-sand, tends to clump when wet, so if your snake happens to ingest it it’s actually very, very dangerous because it impacts real quickly. It can also irritate the scales at it will get under them and most likely in the heat pits. Don’t use sand. — Feeding in a separate tub is a myth! You can feed in the enclosure safely by simply using thongs or forceps and washing your hands after touching prey. If you don’t smell like food, then you are not food. I have fed my snakes in their enclosures for years, and have never gotten confused for a rat/mouse, ever. Feeding in the enclosure reduces the stress of feeling exposed (empty box, anyone?), and saves you the experience of getting regurged (vomited) on for moving your snake
