Caring for a Ball Python: What You Need to Know Before Adopting One

Ball Python Curled Up With Its Face Sticking Out of the CurlsPhoto by Mary Hinton https://unsplash.com/photos/a-snake-with-its-mouth-open-zHaCQWi70_0

Caring for a Ball Python can be an easy rewarding activity if you are looking for a reptile companion.

Snakes can be much easier to care for than small furry animals, and ball Pythons are easy snakes to have as pets.

Ball pythons tend to be on the small side, so they don’t need a lot of space. They are commonly considered a great snake for a first-time pet owner.

Are Ball Pythons Dangerous? Do Ball Pythons Bite?

Ball pythons are a popular choice for pet owners due to their manageable size, calm temperament, and unique beauty. These snakes are constrictors, meaning they subdue their prey by wrapping around it rather than using venom. Because they are not venomous, ball pythons are generally safe to handle and are unlikely to bite when they feel secure and comfortable. Their docile nature makes them an excellent choice for those interested in keeping a snake as a pet, especially beginners.

However, when caring for a ball python, there are important hygiene practices to follow. Like all reptiles, ball pythons can harbor bacteria such as salmonella, which can be harmful to humans if transmitted. It’s essential to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling your snake, cleaning its enclosure, or coming into contact with any of its waste. This practice not only protects your health but also ensures a clean and safe environment for your snake.

Caring for a ball python also involves understanding their specific needs. They require a secure enclosure with proper temperature and humidity levels to mimic their natural habitat. Providing a suitable diet of pre-killed rodents, appropriate hiding spots, and regular maintenance of their living space are all crucial aspects of their care. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a happy, healthy life for your ball python while minimizing any risks to yourself or your family.

For those who enjoy reptiles, caring for a ball python can be a rewarding and fascinating experience. With their calm demeanor and striking appearance, these snakes make wonderful companions for dedicated and informed owners.

Are Ball Pythons Good Pets? Do They Like People?

They can be shy and will curl up into a ball if they feel threatened. They will do this rather than bite youIf you handle them gently and regularly, they will become relaxed and be comfortable around you. They will wrap themselves around you, but it is easy for you to unwrap them if you are uncomfortable with this

Sleep Petterns and Preferences: Ball Pythons Are Nocturnal and Need to Feel Safe

Ball Pythons are nocturnal animals. They will mostly be awake at night. When they are sleeping, they curl up on themselves to protect their head. They like to sleep in quiet dark places, in or around trees. This is something to keep in mind when you are designing their habitat.

Size of A Ball Python: Small Compared to Other Constrictor Snakes

Orange Ball Python on a White Floor With a White Background.Photo by Timothy Dykes https://unsplash.com/photos/brown-and-beige-snake-on-white-surface-NzFA2VhY5gg

A full grown Bally Python snake can usually be about 3-4 feet and 3-4 pounds, but can grow larger.  Females are usually larger than males.


Ball Pythons are on the smaller side for constrictor snakes and that is part of what makes people say that Ball Pythons are good pets

Temperature For a Ball Python, and Humidity Needs

There should be a cool part of the habitat at 80-85 degrees F (26-29 C), and a warm part that is 90-95 degrees F (32-35 C). Under-tank heating pads work well. A hot rock or direct contact with any heating source could cause burns.

Humidity should be at 50-60%.

Ball Python Enclosure: Lots of Space and Make Sure You HAve a Good Lid!

Person Holldong Out Their Hand and Caring For a Ball Python SnakePhoto by Ольга А: https://www.pexels.com/photo/snake-moving-on-hand-27616907/

They need plenty of space to move around. A 30 or 40-gallon tank would be enough for one snake.  There should be a secure wire lid for the top that you can partially cover to help regulate the heat and humidity.




They should have a place to hide in both the cool end of their cage and in the warm end. 


The best subtrate for Ball Pythons to line the bottom of the cage is paper, orchid bark, or reptile carpeting.


What Do Ball Pythons Eat? They Can Be Choosy!

They like to eat mice and rats. They should be given prey that is about the size of the snake at the biggest part of their body.  Live prey might bite or scratch your snake and this could lead to medical problems so don’t leave the prey and snake alone.  You can also feed your ball python frozen mice or rats and they will usually accept this.


They can be choosy about what they eat and might not have a meal for a few months.  Only worry about that if they seem to be losing weight. Generally, you will feed your ball python snake once a week or every other week. Because they don’t eat very often, they don’t poop often and that means less cleanup for you.


They should have fresh water at all times.


Caring For a Ball Python: 
Life Expectancy and Health Concerns

Ball pythons can live 20-30 years.

They should be examined by a vet who is familiar with snake care at least every year, with a fecal exam for parasites. 

They may need treatment for ticks, mites, respiratory problems, parasites, burns, dental problems, skin problems relating to humidity, or shedding problems, but health problems with ball pythons are not common.

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