Ball Python Care Guide

A calm, slow-growing terrestrial python known for its gentle temperament. Thrives with proper heat gradients, secure hides, and a stable, low-stress environment.

Quick Facts

☀️ UVB lighting 🔆 LED lighting 🐾 Terestrial setups 🔥 Heat gradient 🐀 Rodent diet 🛖 Secure hides

Scientific name: Python regius
Common names: Ball Python, Royal Python
Lifespan: 25–35+ years (often 40+ in captivity)
Activity: Nocturnal / crepuscular
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly with proper heating

Enclosure Requirements

Minimum size: 36" × 18" × 18" (juvenile–adult)
Large adult: 48" × 24" × 24" recommended
Orientation: Horizontal — floor space is important
Hides: A warm hide and a cool hide are essential
Décor: Branches, cork bark, foliage, secure climbing options
Security: Snug hides reduce stress and feeding issues

Temperature & Humidity

Warm hide: 31–33°C (88–92°F)
Cool hide: 24–26°C (75–79°F)
Ambient temps: 27–29°C (80–84°F)
Night temps: 24–25°C (75–77°F)
Humidity: 55–65% (up to 75% during shed)
Misting: Light, as needed — avoid drenching substrate

Lighting

UVB: Optional but beneficial
Daylight: Use LED or UVB for a 12-hour cycle
No red/blue bulbs: These can disturb their sleep cycle
Night heating: Use heat mats or radiant heat panels (no lights)

Substrate

Preferred: Coco chips, ReptiChip, or cypress mulch
Shedding: Slightly increased humidity helps
Avoid: Dusty pine/cedar, loose sand

Diet

Staples: Frozen–thawed rats (proper width = snake’s widest point)
Feeding frequency:
- Juveniles: every 5–7 days
- Adults: every 10–14 days
Refusal periods: Normal during winter or breeding season
Never feed live unless absolutely necessary: Risk of injury

Water & Hydration

Water bowl: Large enough for the snake to soak if desired
Clean: Replace water daily
Shedding: Increased humidity + proper hides prevent stuck shed
Note: Sudden soaking can indicate mites or overheating

Gallery & Enclosure Example

Here are examples of Ball Python enclosures and habitat styles.

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