Ball pythons (Python regius), also known as royal pythons, are one of the most popular pet snakes due to their manageable size, docile nature, and beautiful patterns. With proper care, they can live up to 30 years.

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🐍 Ball Python Care Sheet

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📌 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Python regius

• Common Name: Ball python or royal python

• Native Habitat: Central and Western Africa

• Activity: Nocturnal and crepuscular (active at night and twilight)

• Temperament: Shy but generally docile

• Lifespan: Up to 30 years with proper care

 

🏠 Enclosure & Habitat

• Juveniles: Minimum 10–20 gallon tank

• Adults: Minimum 40-gallon tank

• Substrate: Aspen, cypress mulch, or paper towels; avoid cedar or pine

• Hides: At least two (one on warm side, one on cool side)

• Climbing branches: Optional but appreciated

• Humidity: 50–60%, increase to 70% during shedding

• Temperature Gradient:

  • Warm side: 88–92°F

  • Cool side: 75–80°F

  • Nighttime drop: No lower than 75°F

• Lighting: No UVB required, but a day/night cycle is beneficial

 

🍽️ Feeding

• Diet: Carnivorous; primarily rodents

• Juveniles: Feed every 5–7 days

• Adults: Feed every 10–14 days

• Prey Size: Should be about the same width as the snake’s widest part

• Feeding Time: Evening or night (they’re nocturnal)

 

💧 Water & Hydration

• Provide a shallow water dish large enough for soaking

• Change water daily or when soiled

 

🧼 Cleaning & Maintenance

• Spot clean daily

• Full substrate change every 4–6 weeks

• Disinfect enclosure monthly

 

🧑‍⚕️ Health & Handling

• Signs of good health: Clear eyes, regular shedding, active at night

• Common issues: Respiratory infections, mites, retained shed

• Handling tips: Support the body, avoid sudden movements, limit handling to a few times per week

 

🛒 Supply Checklist

• Secure enclosure with locking lid

• Heat source (under-tank heater or heat lamp)

• Thermometers for both warm and cool sides

• Hygrometer for humidity

• Hides, water dish, substrate

• Feeding tongs