My snakes have all been free. (I now have 15) 3 were W/C from my backyard and one was expecting. 2 were adopted from another forum member. I have 10 squigglies.

My tanks are from flea markets, a 29 gallon for $10.00 and Craig's List, another 30 gallon for $10.00. I did purchase a 10 gallon and a 20 gallon from a pet store for a minimal amount.

Water bowls are old chinese takeout containers. Some bark and sticks from outside (baked in the oven) and some of the hides came with the adoptees. I use real pothos plants, which my W/C garters love to sit in.

Snakes aren't picky, they like cardboard boxes, old flower pots, etc to hide under. Mine spend alot of time under their water bowls.

Good luck! Where are you located?