Ball Pythons, or Python regius, are a favorite among many reptile hobbyists and can live for 20 to 30 years. Originating in Africa, these short, thick-bodied snakes, sometimes referred to as the Royal Python, are commonly found throughout the reptile pet trade as wild caught imports. Prices can range from $50 to $10,000 depending on color variations.
Captive bred ball pythons are generally much easier to care for than the wild caught specimens that may potentially harbor parasites, diseases, be overly irritable or shy, and often refuse to eat leading to starvation. When purchasing a ball python, always choose one that is captive bred. This not only provides a healthier and better acclimated snake, but helps lessen the impact on the native species.
How Long Will a Ball Python Get?
Most of the mass of a ball python is in its girth. These thick-bodied snakes generally grow 3-5 feet in length, with some specimens reaching lengths of up to 6 feet. The female tends to be larger than the male both in length and girth. Females will lay between 2-10 eggs and will incubate them by vibrating against them to create heat from friction. Eggs hatch in about 56 days.
Ball Python Temperament and Traits
Ball pythons are a somewhat shy snake that may curl into the “ball” formation when it feels scared or threatened. Frequent handling can curb this behavior and cultivate a more socialized snake, although avoid handling the snake for a day or two after it has eaten to prevent regurgitation of its food.
A nocturnal snake, ball pythons spend much of the day hiding. They seldom bask, but may occasionally come out during the day. In their native habitat they can be found climbing amid tree branches in their search for food. Captive snakes should be given a branch to climb on and to aid in the shed removal.
What do Ball Pythons Eat?
In their native African habitat, ball pythons feed mainly on small rodents such as gerbils although they have sometimes been known to feed on birds. Captive ball pythons should be fed a diet of mice or rats. In the case of a difficult eater, seen most often with wild caught specimens, they might be enticed to eat a small chick.
Another important note about ball pythons is that they have a slow metabolism and will sometimes go for months without eating. Monitor the snake's weight closely. A ball python that's lost more than 10%-15% body weight should be considered at risk and measures need to be taken to ensure that it begins eating again.
Ball Pythons Need Heat and Humidity
One very important factor for a healthy ball python is maintaining the appropriate humidity. Ball pythons do best in a humidity of 60-70%. Other problems that can stem from lack of proper humidity is the inability to shed properly. This can sometimes lead to blindness in cases where the scales don't slough off of the eye.
When setting up the ball python's cage use a substrate such as shredded cypress or cypress mulch, aspen, fir, or moss to help maintain humidity, and always provide a water bowl large enough to allow the python to soak in. A rough log or limb should also be made available to aid the snake in shedding the old skin.
The temperature range in the cage should 80°- 90° degrees during the day and 70°-80° at night. Recommended heating methods are an under tank heater or heat lamp. Never use heat rocks because these can cause severe burns to the snake.
When properly cared for, ball pythons make wonderful pets. Before buying one as a pet, find a good book on ball pythons and learn as much as possible about this fascinating reptile and then decide. Selecting the right pet is a reward in itself.
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