Ball Pythons

Scientific Name: Python regius. Python, referring to large, constricting snakes. Regius is the Latin word for ‘regal’. In the past, ball pythons were worn as ‘living jewelry’ for African royalty.

Description: Ball pythons hatch at around 10 inches in length. Adult males grow to be 3-4 feet in length, while females can reach 6 feet long. Ball python bodies tend to have more of a triangular circumference than perfectly round. Being part of the short-tailed python family, they have shorter tail lengths in relation to their body length than other snake species. Typically they are brown with a tan underbelly and lighter brown spots with darker splotches inside going along their back. This coloration helps them to camouflage with the surroundings they are found in. Ball pythons bred for the pet trade are found in a variety of colors and patterns.

Behavior: Ball pythons will only mate every 2-3 years naturally. Females will lay 1-10 eggs between September and November. The eggs will hatch 55 – 65 days later. Unlike other snakes, ball python females will remain with their eggs to help incubate them. Adults can live to be up to 20 – 30 years old under human care and the oldest one ever recorded was 50 years old! Average lifespan in their natural habitat is approximately 10 years. Ball pythons are somewhat arboreal, more so as juveniles than as adults. They are typically nocturnal or crepuscular (most active during dawn and dusk), but can be more diurnal when raised under human care. 

Diet: Strictly carnivorous. Naturally, these snakes eat a variety of prey, mostly small mammals and birds.

Range & Habitat:.Native to West Sub-saharan Africa, ball pythons can be seen in grasslands, savannahs and sparsely wooded areas. 

Conservation:  Ball pythons are considered to be a species of least concern currently. However, their wild population numbers have begun to decline mainly due to being taken for the pet trade. With their slow reproduction rate, it is hard for wild populations to replenish themselves.

How you can help: If you are looking for a ball python as a pet, look into a rescue! Ball pythons are often surrendered to rescues once their original owners realize they do not have the time or financial means to properly care for the snake. Reptile rescue are often overrun with ball pythons in need of a home. If you are looking for a specific color morph, research responsible breeders before making a purchase. Before rescuing or purchasing a ball python, make sure to do proper research into the necessary care! Ball pythons require expensive heating and lighting, as well as large enclosures to comfortably move around.