Ball Pythons: Care and What to Expect
Ball Pythons come in various colors and patterns referred to as “morphs”. This is Sam with three of her “BPs”: Gizmo, Chico, and Slim Jim.
Ball Pythons are one of the most popular pet snakes. Whether you are a seasoned reptile owner or looking to bring home your first reptile, ball pythons are a great pet choice for most households. As with all pets, it is important to understand what caring for it will be like prior to bringing the animal home. Keep reading to learn more about these snakes and how they might be the perfect animal to call your new pet.
PERSONALITY
Like most animals, personality varies from each individual. Ball Pythons are generally docile with very pleasant personalities. They are quite easy to handle and generally take well to being held by all family members. Some younger snakes can be jumpy or even nippy if they are not successfully socialized. This is why it is important to bring home a young snake so that you can ensure it has correct socialization early in its life.
Ball Pythons are quite curious and they can be seen exploring their habitat in the early evening hours. Because they are nocturnal they are most active in the evening and overnight hours. When handling your Ball Python it is important to approach them from the side rather than directly head on. This will be much more comfortable for them and they will be less fearful when you handle them in this manner.
Pythons are constrictors, so they do use constriction to kill their prey. Some people find that their nature of constricting is intimidating when handling these snakes for the first time. If a Ball Python wraps around your arm or neck while holding them do not be alarmed as this is completely normal. When they behave in this manner they are not trying to harm you. These snakes are tree dwellers and wrapping around you or in a tree is how they secure themselves from falling. Though these snakes are strong, they are not strong enough to constrict an adult human and you can easily unwrap their grasp to move them to a more comfortable position for yourself.
Photo by Crissta Ames-Walle on Unsplash
HOUSING
Ball Pythons require different sized enclosures depending on their age. Male “BPs” can be housed in a much smaller cage than a female throughout their life because they are smaller. Providing an enclosure that is at least the full length of the snake is recommended by most professionals. This will provide the snake enough room to stretch out completely and explore their environment comfortably. Snakes On Sam has a great Caresheet that provides enclosure sizes for Ball Pythons. CLICK HERE to view The Ultimate Ball Python Care Sheet.
“BPs” do not require much decoration in their enclosures but it certainly helps to add entertainment for your pet snake. A hide that provides shelter is a must for any snake enclosure. When choosing a hide for your Ball Python it is best to purchase one that provides a small opening the snake can slither through and is small enough so they can snuggle up within. A hide that is too large will make them feel insecure and one that is too small won’t provide them enough space to fit their entire length in.
Ball Pythons also enjoy branches, cork pieces and other natural obstacles to slither on. It is important to make sure the enclosure accessories are secure and strong enough to support the entire weight of the snake.
It is important to choose a substrate that is safe for Ball Pythons. Sam’s Ultimate Ball Python Caresheet has suggestions for the best type of substrate for your pet snake.
FOOD
Ball Pythons eat whole prey exclusively. Rats, mice, and chicks are common foods for these snakes. When choosing a “feeder” it is important to choose one an appropriately sized for your snake. Choosing a feeder that is the same thickness of the thickest part of your Ball Python is the safest way to feed your snake. A local reptile shop can help you choose the right food for your snake if you are unsure of the size you need.
You also have the option of feeding live or frozen-thawed prey to your snake. It is recommended to feed frozen-thawed as it is much safer. After defrosting and heating the frozen-thawed “feeder” to safe temperatures with warm water feed the prey to your Ball Python with snake feeding tongs.
LONGEVITY
Ball Pythons have a very long life expectancy with the correct care. These snakes can live close to 30 years. This is why it is important to research and understand the needs of the species prior to bringing one home. The Ultimate Ball Python Caresheet provides important information that can help you decide if this is the right animal for your home.
Sam Sherdel is a professional reptile handler and trainer with over 15 years of experience with various exotic species. If you have any questions about Ball Pythons and their care you can follow her and message her on her Instagram (@snakesonsam).