Ball Python Habitat

For those fascinated by the thought of getting a snake as a pet, the ball python or Python Regius is an excellent choice! Known for their docile and endearing attributes, ball pythons are not only small in size (as compared to other pythons!) and easy to take care of, but they are also non-poisonous. These pythons get their name from their habit of curling into a ball, with the head in the center, when they're nervous or scared. At birth, these pythons are about 14-18 inches long and grow up to about 3-5 feet in length. Their black, brown and tan spots help one to easily identify these pythons in their natural habitats.

Ball Python's Natural Habitat

A native to West Africa, these pythons today are found living on two continents of the world: Africa and North America. Every year, a large number of ball pythons were imported into North America, thereby increasing their numbers on the American continent. They are comfortable living on trees as well as on the grounds of the savannas and grasslands of Africa. In their natural habitat, these snakes experience high levels of humidity, as well as dry and wet seasons. The acres of grasslands form perfect habitats for the snakes. Moreover, the mice and rodents found there form lovely meals for ball pythons. Being nocturnal animals, ball pythons are mostly found sleeping in burrows and holes during the day.

How to Create an Artificial Ball Python Habitat

Mimicking the conditions of the natural habitat is essential while taking care of the python in captivity. It is said that captive-bred ball pythons do much better than the ones in the wild, especially in terms of feeding, being less aggressive and being infected by parasites. Care for ball pythons at home would demand setting up of an appropriate habitat for the python to live in. Let's have a look at the different things one has to get done before getting the pet python home.

Terrarium
Since, ball pythons grow to a size of 3-5 feet, it is advisable to get a 30-gallon long terrarium, which will provide ample floor space for the snake to move around. For adults, a 30-50 gallon tank is suitable. The point to remember while picking out a terrarium is, that the size should be such that the snake can stretch comfortably without touching the sides of the terrarium. As ball pythons are really good at escaping, one needs to get a heavy duty lock door. Pythons do need a few elevated spots to perch on in the terrarium. Place one or two hide boxes in the terrarium for the snake to cuddle in.

Substrate
The base of the terrarium needs to be covered with a bedding or substrate. Bark mulch, pine shavings, white paper towels, recycled newspaper, etc. make suitable substrates. It's best to avoid non-disposable substrates such as carpets, etc.

Humidity
An under tank heater that covers about one-third of the enclosure's base is recommended. A thermostat is required to control the heat in the enclosure. Moreover, by placing a thermometer in the terrarium, one can constantly keep a check on the temperature and maintain it at 95F. To maintain appropriate levels of humidity, one should mist the cage a few times a week.

Feeding
Young ball pythons typically feed on mice, while the adults relish on rats and gerbils. Pre-killed mice, available at pet stores can be fed to the python. However, while feeding make sure you use tongs to feed the python, as the scent of your hand can leave the snake confused. Ball pythons are infamous for their picky nature. They are finicky about what they eat, often causing pet owners to pull their hair out in frustration. However, one doesn't have to feed the python daily. Feeding the snake once a week is more than sufficient, as pythons can go without feeding for about 3 months. Ball pythons should not be overfed, as they can become obese and have several health problems. Water bowl should be sanitized and refilled once every week.

Once you get them home, you are responsible for their well-being. So, do not get impulsive and get one, just because you want to show off an unusual pet. Pets are great responsibilities and only if you are ready to shoulder them meticulously, should you get one!