🦎 Reptiles

Ball Python

Gentle, shy and easy to handle.

Ball pythons are calm snakes that curl into a ball when nervous. Their manageable size and docile temperament make them one of the most popular pet snakes.

Lifespan20–30 years
SizeMedium · 3–5 ft
Care levelEasy
Typical cost$25–50 / month
Great for
BeginnersLong-term commitmentQuiet homesDocileShyCalm
Ball Python

Photo: HCA (talk) · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

4′×2′×2′ enclosure for adults; warm side 88–92°F, ambient 78–80°F, humidity 60–80%. Two snug hides.

Appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents every 1–3 weeks depending on age.

Climbing branches and clutter to explore.

Check for retained shed, especially eye caps.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Respiratory infections
  • Retained shed
  • Mouth rot (stomatitis)
  • Mites
  • Regurgitation
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Reptile vet check after adoption; annual exams.

Find a vet near me

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.