If you’re curious about snakes but a bit nervous about owning one, let me introduce you to the Ball Python—the superstar of beginner snake keepers. With their calm personality, manageable size, and adorable “curl-up-into-a-ball” habit (yes, that’s where the name comes from), ball pythons have become one of the most popular pet snakes in the world.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about ball pythons—where they come from, why they make amazing pets, how to care for them, and even some fun facts that’ll make you see snakes in a whole new light.
What Exactly is a Ball Python?
The Ball Python (Python regius) is a non-venomous constrictor snake native to West and Central Africa. They live in grasslands, savannas, and open forests, often hiding in burrows during the day and becoming more active at night.
- Size: Adults typically grow 3 to 5 feet long, with females being slightly larger than males.
- Lifespan: In captivity, ball pythons can live 20–30 years (some even longer with proper care).
- Appearance: They have a stocky body, small head, and beautiful natural brown-and-gold patterns. Thanks to selective breeding, you’ll also find dozens of colorful “morphs” with unique patterns and shades.
Fun fact: The ball python is also called the “royal python” because, according to legend, African royalty used to wear them as jewelry—draped around their wrists and necks. Talk about fashion with a bite of history!
Why Ball Pythons Make Great Pets
If you’re worried about snakes being aggressive or high-maintenance, ball pythons will surprise you. Here’s why they’re often the number-one recommendation for beginner snake owners:
1. They’re Gentle and Shy
Unlike some other snakes, ball pythons aren’t defensive or snappy. When they feel scared, they don’t strike—they curl into a ball (adorable, right?). That makes them one of the safest snakes to handle.
2. Perfect Size for Handling
They’re not too small to slip away easily and not too large to intimidate you. At 3–5 feet, they’re just the right size for handling, cuddling (well, snake-style cuddling), and showing off to your friends.
3. Long-Term Companions
Owning a ball python is like a long friendship commitment. With proper care, they can live more than 20 years, which is longer than most cats and dogs.
4. Low Noise, No Allergies
Forget barking, meowing, or shedding fur all over your clothes. Ball pythons are silent, clean, and don’t cause allergic reactions.
5. Beautiful Morphs
From albino to pastel to pied, the variety of ball python morphs makes them almost like Pokémon—you just want to collect them all.
Setting Up a Home for Your Ball Python
Caring for a ball python doesn’t need to be complicated, but you’ll want to get the basics right. Think of it as making your snake feel like royalty (remember, “royal python”!).
Enclosure
- Tank Size: Start with a 20-gallon tank for juveniles; adults need a 40-gallon tank or bigger.
- Security: Ball pythons are escape artists. Always use a tight-fitting lid.
Heating and Lighting
- Temperature Gradient: Warm side (88–92°F) and cool side (76–80°F).
- Heating Options: Under-tank heaters, heat lamps, or ceramic heat emitters.
- Lighting: They don’t need UVB light, but a natural day-night cycle is beneficial.
Humidity
Keep humidity around 50–60% (higher during shedding, up to 70%). You can mist the enclosure or add a water dish to maintain this.
Hides and Decor
Ball pythons love hiding. Give them at least two hides (one on the warm side, one on the cool side). Add branches, rocks, and fake plants for enrichment.
Substrate
Popular options: aspen bedding, cypress mulch, or paper towels for easy cleaning. Avoid cedar or pine—they’re toxic.
Feeding Your Ball Python
Feeding is one of the most fascinating parts of snake care.
- Diet: Ball pythons eat rodents—typically mice or rats, depending on size.
- Frequency:
- Hatchlings: every 5–7 days.
- Juveniles: every 7–10 days.
- Adults: every 10–14 days.
- Prey Size: Roughly the same thickness as the widest part of the snake’s body.
- Live vs. Frozen-Thawed: Frozen-thawed rodents are recommended (safer for the snake and more convenient for you).
Pro tip: Ball pythons can sometimes be picky eaters. If your snake refuses food, don’t panic—it’s normal, especially during the breeding season or cooler months.
Handling Tips: Building Trust With Your Snake
Ball pythons are docile, but like any pet, they need time to get used to you.
- Wait after feeding: Don’t handle for at least 48 hours after meals to avoid regurgitation.
- Gentle movements: Approach slowly and scoop from the side, not from above (so you don’t mimic a predator).
- Short sessions: Start with 5–10 minutes and gradually increase.
Over time, you’ll notice your snake becomes comfortable with you—some even seem curious and enjoy exploring your hands and arms.
Common Ball Python Health Issues
A healthy ball python is active at night, sheds regularly, and eats on schedule. But here are some issues to watch out for:
- Shedding Problems (Dysecdysis): Caused by low humidity. Solution: boost humidity and provide a moist hide.
- Respiratory Infections: Symptoms include wheezing or bubbles around the nose. Usually caused by improper temperatures.
- Parasites: Always get your python from a reputable breeder and have a vet check for mites or internal parasites.
- Refusing Food: Normal sometimes, but if prolonged, check husbandry conditions or consult a reptile vet.
Fun Facts About Ball Pythons
- They’re escape artists: If there’s even the smallest gap in your tank lid, your python will find it.
- They play dead (sort of): Curling into a tight ball is their version of saying, “Nope, I’m invisible!”
- They come in 4,000+ morphs: Breeders have developed thousands of genetic color and pattern variations.
- They rarely bite: A ball python bite feels like a tiny pinch compared to other animals.
Are Ball Pythons Right for You?
Let’s be honest—ball pythons aren’t for everyone. If you’re squeamish about feeding rodents or want a pet that plays fetch, this isn’t the one. But if you’re fascinated by reptiles, love low-maintenance pets, and want a calm, gentle companion, then a ball python might be your perfect match.
Imagine sitting on your couch with a warm, slow-moving snake curled around your arm—quiet, elegant, and oddly soothing. That’s the magic of owning a ball python.
Final Thoughts
The ball python is more than just a snake—it’s a long-term companion that can teach you patience, responsibility, and even a bit of wonder about nature. They’re calm, beautiful, and surprisingly easy to care for.
So, if you’ve ever thought about stepping into the world of reptile keeping, the ball python is the perfect first step.
FAQs
1. Are ball pythons good pets for beginners?
Yes! They’re docile, easy to handle, and require relatively simple care compared to other snakes.
2. How big do ball pythons get?
Most adults grow between 3 and 5 feet long. Females are usually larger than males.
3. What do ball pythons eat?
They eat rodents such as mice and rats. Frozen-thawed is the safest option.
4. How long do ball pythons live?
In captivity, they can live 20–30 years with proper care.
5. Do ball pythons bite?
They rarely bite. If they do, it’s usually because they’re scared or mistake your hand for food.
Written by
Imtiaz Ivan
Chief Editor at Animal Ranger