NTX Morphs' Ball Python Care Guide

Welcome to the wonderfully wiggly world of Ball Pythons! Whether you’re a seasoned snake charmer or just slithering into the hobby, we’re here to make sure your new noodle friend is living the best life possible. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into the basics of Ball Python care—with a dash of humor and a lot of heart.

1. Home Sweet Habitat

The Royal Suite:

Your Ball Python’s home is its castle, so let’s make it fit for royalty. A 20-gallon (30X12X12), front-opening enclosure is perfect for juveniles, but as they grow, aim for a 40-gallon (36X18X16) or larger. Just think of it as upgrading from a cozy starter apartment to a deluxe condo—your snake will appreciate the extra legroom (well, if they had legs).

Front-Opening Enclosures:

We recommend any enclosure you choose to be front-opening. "Fish tanks" force you to reach from above your noodle, which can be scary and intimidating. Imagine a giant hand descending from the sky—no thanks! A front-opening enclosure keeps things friendly and stress-free, making your Ball Python feel more secure.

Temperature & Humidity:

Ball Pythons are fans of tropical vacations. Keep one side of their home toasty at 88-92°F (the "basking area") and the other side a bit cooler at 75-80°F (the "cool side"). Use an under-tank heater or heat lamp, and always have a reliable thermometer to avoid any unplanned snake-cicles. Humidity should be around 50-60%, with a slight bump during shedding (around 70%). A little misting or a shallow water dish will do the trick. Remember, no one likes a dry snake, so keep that humidity just right.

Hide & Seek:

Ball Pythons love a good game of hide and seek. Provide at least two hides—one on the warm side and one on the cool side. They like to feel snug and secure, so pick hides that are just the right size, not too big, not too small—think Goldilocks, but for snakes.

2. Dinner Time: The Joy of Feeding

Menu Options:

Ball Pythons have a simple palate—rodents! Most will happily munch on frozen-thawed mice or rats, but size matters. A meal should be about the same girth as your snake at its widest point. It’s like picking the perfect burrito—one that’s satisfying but doesn’t make you regret your life choices.

Feeding Frequency:

Juveniles eat every 5-7 days, while adults can stretch it out to every 10-14 days. No need to invite them to every meal—just enough to keep them plump and happy.

Dining Etiquette:

Serve meals with tongs to avoid accidental finger nibbling. Trust us, your snake doesn’t want to confuse you with a snack, and you don’t want to be the confused snack. Also, always feed in the tank to avoid stressing out your snake by moving them around unnecessarily.

3. Shedding: Out with the Old, In with the New

Ball Pythons shed their skin in one piece (or at least, they should!). If the humidity is right and the temperature is cozy, shedding should be a breeze. During this time, your snake might look a little dull or have cloudy eyes—don’t worry, they’re not getting old and wise, just getting ready to slip into something a little more comfortable. If shedding issues arise (like stuck pieces), a warm bath or a humidity boost can help. Think of it as a mini spa day for your scaly friend.

4. Handling: Making Friends with Your Noodle

Gentle & Regular Handling:

Ball Pythons are pretty chill as snakes go, but they still need some time to warm up to you—literally. Handle them gently and regularly to build trust. Just be sure to give them some time (usually a minimum of 24 hours) after feeding to digest (no one likes to be poked when they’re full) and avoid handling during shedding—no one likes to be bothered on a bad hair day.

Signals & Body Language:

Pay attention to your snake’s body language. A curious, relaxed snake will explore, while a nervous one might ball up or hiss. We can show you how to rizz up your noodle if they are grumpy.

5. Health Check: Keeping Your Snake in Top Shape

Signs of a Happy Python:

Bright, clear eyes, smooth, shiny scales, regular shedding, and a healthy appetite are all signs your snake is living its best life.

Common Issues:

Watch out for respiratory infections (wheezing, bubbly mucus), mites (tiny, pesky black spots), and improper shedding. If anything seems off, a trip to a reptile-savvy vet is in order. They’re the snake doctors, after all, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

6. Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Slither

Ball Pythons are a joy to keep—charming, docile, and full of personality. With the right care, your new snake buddy can live a long, healthy life (20-30 years is common!). So, take your time, enjoy the process, and remember—caring for a Ball Python is as much about creating a bond as it is about providing for their needs. Welcome to the snake life—where every day is a little more interesting, and every curl of the tail is a new adventure. Happy herping!