Ball Python (Python Regius):
Ball Pythons are native to central and western Africa. Also known as the Royal Python they are probabaly the most popular pet snakes in the world.
Size:
Hatchlings are about 10 inches in length. Adult females can get from 3 to 5 feet where adults will hit an average of 2 to 3 feet in length
Lifespan:
With proper care Ball Pythons can live from 30 years or more.
Housing:
When it comes to housing your Ball Python there are two ways to go about it. The first is using a terrarium. A baby to a juvenile can be housed in a 10 to 20 gal terrarium. Baby ball pythons will do better in a smaller enclosure rather then larger as they feel more secure in tighter areas. If the enclosure is to big they can feel overwhelmed and can become stressed. Adult Ball pythons can be kept in terrariums up to 30 gallons. The issue with terrariums is that you will not get the proper humidity levels needed. The other way to house your python is with a rack system or other PVC display enclosures made for snakes. these enclosures will help keep humidity levels better and because they do not have the open concept of the glass they will feel more secure.
Substrate:
Substrate used for Ball Pythons is based on your preference. Some like to use simple substrate such as paper towel or newspaper. With this method you cant really spot clean it so it will need to be replaced more often. The other option would be a naturalistic choice like Cyprus mulch, aspen shavings/chips or coconut husk . These options will be easier for spot cleaning and will not need to be replaced as often. It will also help with humidity.
*DO NOT use Sand or Cedar Substrate*
Humidity:
Humidity levels are important for your snakes health and for proper shedding. The humidity levels should be kept between 50% and 60% and can go as high as 80% during shedding.
Lighting and temperature:
Heat lamps or other lighting is not necessary and can do more damage then good. They will only dry out the air and do not providse the heat where the snakes need the heat the most., on there belly. Your set up should have a hot spot of around 87F to 92F and a cool side of 77F to 82F. A hide placed on the warm side and cold side will help the snake regulate its temperature
Food and water
Ball Pythons should be fed an appropriate sized mouse/rat once every 1 to 2 weeks, babies should be fed weekly. An appropriate sized rodent is the size of the biggest in circumference part of the snake. We highly recommend feeding your Ball Python rats over mice as rats are bigger and more nutritionally complete then mice. We normally feed our babies a live mouse for for the first meal and then switch to frozen thawed rats. Frozen thawed is the preferred method or freshly killed as this will prevent any injury to your snake. If you choose to feed live please do not leave your snake unsupervised. ASF's or African Soft Furs can be used for those stubborn eaters. Do not disturb the snake for at least 24 hours after feeding as this may cause the snake to regurgitate its food.
Fresh clean water should be available at all times. The size of water dish is up to you.
Handling and temperament:
Ball pythons will spend most of its time hiding as they are generally a shy animal. They are normally docile and only snappy do to fear or a feeding response. Handling your python regularly will help it to build a trust with you. When handling your snake make sure to support its body and avoid fast movements. We recommend to not handle your ball python when it is in shed as their site becomes greatly diminished and becomes more defensive. Another time to not handle your snake other then after its done eating is right before you feed it. If you disturb the snake before feeding it may become stressed and not want to eat. It is recommended to not handle your snake at least 4 hours before feeding.
Fun Facts
They are also known as "Royal Pythons" because ancient royalty wore them as jewelry. It is believed Cleopatra wore one on her wrist as a bracelet.
Like zebras, no two ball python are alike and have their own unique pattern.