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Ball python

Python regius

Class
Reptile
Family
Pythonidae
Genus
Python
Also known as
Royal python

Ball python care at a glance

Adult length
0.9–1.5 m (3–4.9 ft)
Adult weight
1–2.5 kg (2.2–5.5 lb)
Lifespan
20–30 years
Basking / warm side
31–33 °C (88–91 °F)
Cool side
24–27 °C (75–81 °F)
Night minimum
22 °C (72 °F)
Humidity
55–75%
UVB
Optional (low-level is beneficial)
Diet
Appropriately sized rodents, usually frozen-thawed
Activity
Nocturnal
Lifestyle
Terrestrial

Prone to obesity; adults often eat every 2–3 weeks.

Typical values from common keeping practice. Individual animals and setups vary. See the enclosure size guide.

Ball python morphs and genes

49 genes in our list. Log your animal's genetics and Reptilytics builds its morph name for you, or try the ball python genetics calculator.

Recessive

Co-dominant

Dominant

Ball python research

251 published papers in the HerpAtlas library. Most cited below, or see the latest research →

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