Ball pythons, Python regius, are inhabitants in Central and Western Africa. They are crepuscular creatures, in other words they can roam around during daylight and nightfall. This particular specie do love to roam both in lands and in trees.

In Europe they are called as “Royal Python” while typically called as “Ball Python” in the United States. They got their name from their behavior because every time they feel nervous, they pulled their heads firmly in the center and turn into a ball-like shape. They can reach as long as 5 feet though their average size is 4 feet in length. Like other snakes, a female ball python is bigger than a male.

Usually, their skin color pattern is black or dark brown with with light yellowish sides and dorsal blotches. However, with their popular development in the pet trade, there are many color patterns as of now for ball python due to captive genetic mutation.

If you are attracted on buying this specie, then you might consider knowing some basic stuffs on how to raise effectively a ball python. First thing on the list will be selecting a good snake. Before buying directly, you must look for these qualities; firm and rounded body, got clear vent and eyes and is flicking its tongue actively in the air. When touching the snake for the first time also, it might feel nervous and pull its head away from your hands. The second thing will be the enclosure, definitely appropriate for the size of your snake and must be a tight one. A young ball python may require a 20 gallon tank while 30 gallon tank will best fits for an adult. As for the substrate, paper towels can be given and just remember to avoid any pine and aspen shaving since your snake might ingest the substrate when eating. Inside the enclosure, there must be at least one hiding place. A half-log or empty cardboard box may do. Next will be very important, the temperature since snakes can’t regulate their body temperature and this factor may affect their health. Air temperature ambient must range from 80-85F during the day while must be kept for 90F during the night. As an additional heat source, heating pads can be given also inside the enclosure. This thing can help raise the air temperature for up to 20 degrees higher. Then next will be about their foods, the hatchling can eat a 10-day old fuzzy. As they grow, they require a larger size prey. With regards to the water, it can be given in a bowl which allows your snake to drink there or even when they want to soak itself. Regular cleaning in their enclosure is must also, as well as the changing of water in the bowl. Ensure proper precaution for any types of illness and if visible signs approaches, contact a reptile vet as soon as possible.

Think very well if you really want to have snake as pet. And never consider the idea of having a snake just for fun. If you want a snake, treat them properly.

Ball Python are the best pets. Thanks for reading my article Ari Flagle