Royal Python (Ball Python) Care Sheet
General Information
- Scientific Name: Python regius
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Size: 90-150 cm (3-5 feet)
Housing
- Tank Size: Minimum 90 x 45 x 45 cm (36 x 18 x 18 inches) for an adult python. Hatchlings can start in a 45 x 30 x 30 cm (18 x 12 x 12 inches) tank.
- Substrate: Suitable substrates include Aspen/Lignocel, beech chips, orchid bark, and coir/bark mix. Avoid pine or cedar shavings as they can be toxic.
- Hide Boxes: Provide at least two hides: one on the warm side and one on the cool side of the tank.
Heating
-
Temperature Gradient:
- Warm Side: 31-33°C (88-92°F)
- Cool Side: 24-26°C (75-79°F)
- Night Temperature: Should not drop below 21°C (70°F)
- Heating: Use a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter (CHE), both of which must be controlled by a thermostat. If using a CHE, ensure it is protected by a guard to prevent burns.
Lighting
- Lighting: Royal pythons do not require UVB lighting. Provide a day/night cycle with a 12-hour light and 12-hour dark period.
- Photoperiod: Mimic natural conditions with a 12-hour light/12-hour dark cycle.
Humidity
- Humidity Level: 50-60%, increasing to 70-80% during shedding.
Diet
- Staple Foods: Appropriately sized rodents, such as mice and rats.
-
Feeding Frequency:
- Hatchlings: Every 5-7 days
- Juveniles: Every 7-10 days
- Adults: Every 10-14 days
Water
- Water: Provide a large, shallow dish of fresh water daily. Ensure the water dish is large enough for the snake to soak in.
Handling
- Handling Frequency: Handle your python gently and infrequently to build trust. Overhandling can cause stress.
- Support: Always support their entire body to make them feel secure.
Health
- Shedding: Royal pythons shed regularly. Check for retained shed, especially around the eyes and tail.
- Signs of Illness: Loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, abnormal feces, respiratory issues, or visible parasites. Consult a reptile veterinarian if any signs are noticed.
Cleaning
- Spot Cleaning: Daily removal of feces and uneaten food.
- Deep Cleaning: Monthly deep clean of the entire enclosure, including changing the substrate and disinfecting the tank and decor.
Enrichment
- Climbing Opportunities: Provide branches, logs, and reptile-safe decor to encourage natural behaviors.
- Hide Variety: Offer multiple hides with different textures and materials.
Common Royal Python Morphs
- Normal (Wild Type): Typical brown and black pattern.
- Albino: Lack of dark pigment, sensitive to bright light.
- Piebald: Patches of normal color with large areas of white.
- Pastel: Brighter coloration, often with reduced black pigment.
- Spider: Unique pattern, can have neurological issues requiring special care.
- Lesser/Butter: Lighter coloration with a more golden hue.
- Mojave: Darker coloration with unique patterning.
Special Care for Certain Morphs
Some royal python morphs require different care to suit their needs:
- Albino Morphs: More sensitive to light; provide a more shaded environment and avoid bright lighting.
- Spider Morphs: Prone to "wobble" syndrome, which causes neurological issues. They need a stress-free environment and careful monitoring.
- Piebald Morphs: No specific additional care needed, but regular health checks are important.
By following these guidelines and being mindful of specific morph needs, you can ensure a healthy and happy life for your royal python. Regular observation and proper care are key to their well-being.