Ball Python Care Sheet

Origin:

Ball pythons (Python regius) are native to West and Central Africa. They inhabit grasslands, savannas, and forest edges, often taking refuge in burrows or termite mounds during the day.

Description:

Ball pythons are medium-sized, non-venomous snakes with distinctive brown, black, and gold patterns. Adults typically reach 3–5 feet in length and weigh 2–5 pounds. They are nocturnal and have a lifespan of 20–30 years in captivity.

Temperament:

Ball pythons are generally docile, making them excellent beginner snakes. They are named for their tendency to curl into a tight ball when stressed. Individual personalities vary, and some may tolerate handling better than others.

Feeding:

• Diet: Rodents such as mice or rats, appropriately sized (roughly equal to the snake's girth).
• Feeding frequency: Juveniles every 5–7 days; adults every 10–14 days.
• Water: Provide fresh water daily in a shallow dish large enough for soaking.
• Notes: Feed pre-killed prey to reduce injury risk. Avoid handling for 24–48 hours after feeding.

Housing:

• Enclosure: Glass or PVC terrarium with secure lid.
• Size: Minimum 36"x18"x12" for an adult; larger enclosures allow more movement.
• Substrate: Aspen shavings, cypress mulch, or paper towel; avoid cedar and pine.
• Temperature: Basking spot 88–92°F, cool side 75–80°F; nighttime 70–75°F.
• Humidity: 50–60%; provide humid hide for shedding.
• Hides: Provide two or more hiding spots on warm and cool sides of the enclosure.

Handling:

Handle gently and support the snake’s entire body. Ball pythons are usually calm, but stress can cause defensive curling or hissing. Gradually increase handling duration over time.

Health:

Common health issues include:

• Respiratory infections from poor ventilation or low temperatures
• Parasites such as mites or internal worms
• Shedding problems due to low humidity or inadequate hides
• Obesity from overfeeding or improper prey size

Regular checkups with a reptile veterinarian are recommended. Watch for lethargy, refusal to eat, abnormal shedding, or wheezing.

Grooming:

Ball pythons groom themselves by regular shedding. Provide a humid hide to assist with shedding, and clean the enclosure regularly to prevent scale infections.

Fun Facts:

• Ball pythons curl into a tight ball to protect their head when threatened.
• They are primarily nocturnal and hunt at night.
• Ball pythons are one of the most popular pet snakes due to their calm temperament and manageable size.
• They can recognize their keepers over time and may respond calmly to regular handling.

Compliments of:
S & S Exotic Animals, Inc.
1711 Connorvale Rd., Houston, TX 77039
(281) 590-0426
www.sandsexoticanimals.com