Biangbiang
Mesa
Python regius
Key traits and size details for Ball Python.
Length
Weight
Lifespan
A West and Central African python of savannas and open forests; it shelters in burrows and may coil into a tight ball when threatened.
Native and introduced range details for Ball Python.
Explore the highlighted native and introduced range for this species. Hover or tap a country to inspect it on the map.
Native across West and parts of Central Africa, from Senegal and neighbouring Atlantic countries east through Nigeria and Cameroon, with records farther east to South Sudan and Uganda.
24-32 C
Temperature range
50-80%
Humidity range
Reference size-over-age data for Ball Python.
Species size over age from anonymized shared keeper measurements.
This chart shows anonymized shared keeper measurements grouped by species, sex, and age. Individual keepers and reptiles are not identified.
Male and female length curves are shown together to highlight sexual dimorphism. Male shared measurement points span 23 to 96 months, rising from 0.8 m to 1.2 m, while female shared measurement points span 1 to 62 months, rising from 0.4 m to 1.3 m.
Housing, feeding, and handling guidance collected in one place.
Give the snake a secure, ventilated enclosure long enough to stretch out fully; provide width and height each at least one-third of its length. Include snug hides at both temperature ends, a humid hide and sturdy climbing branches.
Provide fresh drinking water in a dish large enough for soaking, and replace it at least daily.
Provide a measured temperature gradient: basking zone 30–32°C and cool end 24–26°C. Guard heat sources, use thermostats and check both ends daily.
Measure humidity at the cool end: normally about 50–60%, with misting that briefly raises it toward 80% before it falls again. Maintain ventilation; constant excessive humidity can promote mould.
Provide UVB from UVI 1 at the basking area to zero in shade; some morphs need a lower maximum. Turn lights off at night.
Wild diet is dominated by rodents; in captivity offer appropriately sized whole prey according to individual size and body condition.
Offer appropriately sized, fully thawed rodents with tongs inside the enclosure. Adults commonly feed every 7–14 days depending on body condition; weigh the snake regularly.
Allow a newly arrived python to settle before handling. Support the whole body without grabbing; wait 48 hours after feeding and avoid handling during shedding.
Approved catalog and community photos for Ball Python.
Community contribution
Browse approved catalog images and community-submitted reptile photos for Ball Python. Community images retain contributor attribution in both the gallery and expanded view.
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