The cheapest ball python you can typically find is a basic gene ball python. These snakes usually start around $40-$60 and are a great way to get started with ball pythons if you’re on a budget. Keep in mind, however, that ball pythons usually require a heating pad, enclosure, substrate, and some other supplies—all of which can add up to a few hundred dollars to the total costs.
If you shop around for the best deals, though, you may be able to minimize the cost.
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How much does a ball python cost?
The price of a ball python can vary widely depending on several factors. For example, their age, origin, color and pattern can all affect their cost. Generally speaking, ball pythons from pet stores typically start at around $40-$50 for a “normal” color morph.
On the lower end, a ball python from a local breeder can start at about $25-$35 for a normal ball python and then go up from there. For designer color morphs, the price can vary wildly upwards all the way up to the thousands.
If you are an experienced hobbyist, you may be able to find a designer morph at a Breeder close by for around $100 (depending on their age and your location, of course). Depending on where you live, you may also be able to find a ball python in a re-homing or adoption situation at a discounted price.
What is the gentlest snake?
The gentlest snake is the Kingsnake. Kingsnakes are non-venomous snakes that are common throughout North, Central, and South America. They are generally very docile when encountered in the wild, but if threatened or handled roughly, they may bite in self-defense.
As innocuous as Kingsnakes may appear, they can cause minor wounds due to their sharp teeth and relatively strong jaws. Kingsnakes’ gentleness also makes them popular pets. They are easy to care for, rarely bite and are generally affordable.
Kingsnakes are a great pet snake for all kinds of snake owners, ranging from experienced keepers to novice hobbyists.
Is there a ball python that stays small?
Yes, there are some ball python morphs (variations of color and pattern) that tend to remain smaller than the average size for the species. Smaller ball python morphs include:
• Sable: Sable ball pythons usually grow between three and four feet in length.
• Ghost: A Ghost ball python is an albino mutant that typically stays around three feet in length.
• Pewter: A Pewter ball python is a het for pied and has a beautiful pattern; it tends to remain in the four or five foot range.
• Butter: This is one of the smallest types of ball python, averaging between two and three feet in length when mature.
• Cinnamon: A Cinnamon ball python is a het for Albino and usually ranges between four and five feet in length.
Additionally, some hobbyist breeders are working on producing “dwarf” ball pythons that stay at around two feet in length – the mini-me of ball pythons! So far, these efforts seem to be successful and these snakes are increasing in popularity.
Can ball pythons be small?
Yes, ball pythons can be small. As hatchlings, they typically measure between 10-14 inches. After a few years of growth, they can grow to a size of 3-5 feet. As they get older, their size may slow down or even seem to stop.
Even though they are called “ball” pythons, their average size does not make them ideal for carrying around as a physical ball. But as long as they are properly taken care of, they can live long and healthy lives in captivity even if they remain small.
How old is a 2 foot ball python?
A 2 foot ball python typically is between 1-3 years old in age. However, it is difficult to tell the exact age of a ball python as they age differently depending on various factors, such as size, health, and the amount of nutrition they receive.
Generally, ball pythons can live anywhere between 20-30 years, though the average lifespan is typically closer to 20-25 years. Thus, the age of a 2 foot ball python may still be up for debate, and could even exceed 3 years.
Are pythons good pets?
Pythons can make interesting and rewarding pet snakes, provided that their enclosure is carefully maintained and managed. Pythons require a relatively large habitat and can live up to 25 or even 30 years old, so it’s important to make sure an owner is fully committed and responsible before bringing a python home.
If a proper enclosure is set up and maintained, pythons can provide years of companionship and enjoyment. In addition, the dozens of species of pythons that exist provide a wide choice of size and temperament, so there is surely one that could fit the owner’s lifestyle and experience level.
Since pythons are cold-blooded and need heat and humidity to survive, most owners will use a basking light along with under-tank heating systems to maintain the proper temperatures in the enclosure. This along with ensuring appropriate and nutritional meals makes for a suitable environment for a python to live in.
Pythons need a substrate like aspen chips, odor-free litters, or paper towels. Additionally, they need plenty of hiding and climbing places to feel secure. With these requirements met, along with regular enclosure cleaning, it is possible to have an enjoyable and rewarding relationship with a python.
Will a pet python bite you?
Generally speaking, no, pet pythons are unlikely to bite you. However, wild pythons may be more likely to bite if they feel threatened or are mishandled. To ensure the safety of both you and your pet python, it’s important to handle them gently and properly.
With the right kind of care and interaction, pythons can become docile creatures that are comfortable around humans. Additionally, make sure to keep the snake in an appropriately sized enclosure and provide proper food, stimulation, and regular check-ups for its well-being.
With proper care and understanding, pet pythons can make rewarding captives, and have a good temperament with their owners.
Do pythons bite hurt?
Yes, a Python’s bite can hurt. Pythons, like a number of other snake species, possess the potential to injure humans when they bite. A Python’s bite is quite powerful and its teeth are long, curved and sharp.
This, combined with their muscular bodies, means they can generate a great deal of pressure during a bite.
Individuals who have been bitten by pythons report that the bite can feel like being pinched by a vice, as the pressure builds before intensely releasing. While generally not life-threatening, Python bites can cause abrasions, lacerations and puncture wounds.
A bite can also cause infections if not properly cared for afterwards, as their saliva contains bacteria. So, it is definitely important to seek medical attention if bitten.
In general, it’s very important to remember that all non-native snakes, including Pythons, are wild animals and have the potential to be dangerous. To best avoid getting bitten, it is always advisable to call in a professional to handle the situation if you encounter a wild snake.
Are python snakes friendly?
Python snakes are usually not considered to be particularly friendly reptiles. They are non-venomous, however, which does make them safe to handle. However, it’s important to remember that wild animals can be unpredictable and dangerous, so it’s best to observe them from a safe distance.
In general, the best thing you can do with a wild python snake is to leave it alone and not interact with it. If you are considering purchasing a captive-bred python snake, make sure to research the breed and look into the breeder or store you are buying from.
This can help to ensure that you receive a healthy animal and will be less likely to have any issues. If you know how to handle, feed and house a python snake properly, then they can even become quite tame and seem friendly towards their owners.
How much does it cost to maintain a ball python?
The cost to maintain a ball python can vary greatly depending on the setup and the specific needs of your pet. The cost to purchase a ball python can range from $20-$350, and the cost to set up the enclosure can vary from $60 to several hundred dollars, depending on whether you choose a ready-made setup or build one yourself.
Ongoing costs of keeping a ball python include food, bedding and substrate, heating, lighting, enrichment accessories, cleaning supplies, health checkups and any necessary treatments, and other miscellaneous items.
The cost of food varies upon the size and age of your ball python, with the average cost of one meal ranging from $1-$5. Depending on your setup, the cost of bedding and substrate can range from free (if you choose to use paper towels) to over $20 for more natural substrates.
Heating and lighting can be one of the most expensive components of your setup, but typically cost between $20-$60 depending on the type of heater and light you choose. Enrichment items, such as hides, vines, and sticks, can cost between $10-$50.
Cleaning supplies such as reptile safe disinfectants, sponges, and scrubbing brushes generally cost less than $25. Depending on your area, health checkups and treatments, if any, can range from $50-$150 per visit.
Other miscellaneous items, such as thermometers, digital scales, and misting bottles can range from $5-$20.
All in all, the cost of keeping a ball python can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the setup, size, and age of your ball python, as well as the treatments and accessories you choose.
In general, the cost of the snake and the initial setup of its enclosure will likely be the most expensive components, but overall the cost for food, bedding and substrate, heating, lighting, enrichment, cleaning supplies, health checkups, treatments, and miscellaneous items should be factored in as well.
Are ball pythons expensive to maintain?
Overall, ball pythons can be an affordable reptile to maintain. In terms of basic needs of a ball python cage, the investment is pretty minimal with a good tank, substrate, heat lamp, and a few hide boxes.
On average, the cost for these supplies is around $100, but can range from about $50 to $150 depending on the size of the tank. When it comes to food, it also won’t break the bank. Ball pythons typically eat one mouse per week, which may cost about $3 to $5 per mouse depending on the size and type you buy.
However, live food can be more expensive than frozen. Additional costs such as veterinary check-ups and supplements may be a bit costly, but the cost is still very minimal. Generally, the average monthly expense for a ball python is around $20, making it a relatively low cost pet to own.
How often should a ball python be held?
Most experts suggest that ball pythons should be held a minimum of once or twice a week. Handling your pet helps you to form a bond with your snake, reduces stress, and can help with feeding and shedding.
However, it is important to remember that ball pythons can become stressed easily and can be easily spooked, so you should never handle your ball python if it seems distressed or uncomfortable.
Holding time should start slow, letting your Python get used to you. It takes time for a snake to form a trusting bond with their handler. Initially, the handling time should be five minutes and you should not increase this until your ball python is completely relaxed and feeling comfortable.
The goal is for your ball python to enjoy being held and feel safe in your arms. You can also use a snake hook to help you to safely pick up and hold your snake.
When handling your ball python, make sure that you use slow and steady movements. Be careful when moving your hands, and make sure to always keep at least one hand supporting the body of your python.
Avoid making sudden or jerky movements and never squeeze your ball python.
Finally, when it comes to handling, safety is the most important thing. Make sure to always use the proper techniques and to wash your hands with warm water and soap before and after handling your snake.
This will help prevent any potential illness or stress to your pet.
What to do when you first get a ball python?
When you first get a ball python, there are a few basic steps you should take to ensure the health and welfare of your new pet.
First, make sure your enclosure is set up properly. Choose an enclosure that is at least twice as long as your snake, and ensure that it has adequate ventilation. If you are using a glass tank, provide a secure lid with minimal openings large enough to accommodate all of the necessary accessories such as lighting, heating and water bowls.
Second, provide your snake with the proper substrate. Assemble a layer of substrate that is at least 4 inches in depth and make sure that it is free of debris and old food. Do not use pine, cedar, or carpeting, as these contain toxins that can harm your snake.
Newspaper, recycled paper bedding, or paper towels make good substrates, as they are easy to clean and provide minimal hiding spots for parasites or fleas.
Third, you’ll need to install a heat source. Ball pythons require temperatures between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, and should drop slightly to around 70 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Depending on the size of your enclosure, you may need to install an under-tank heater or a heating lamp.
Fourth, provide clean and fresh water for your new python. Change the water frequently and make sure it is not too deep or too shallow. Ball pythons will not typically soak in water, but if it is shallow enough, they may occasionally use it for drinking or bathing.
Finally, make sure to feed your ball python the proper diet. Smaller ball pythons can be fed one large meal per week, while larger pythons may require two to three meals per week. Rodents and other small animals can make up the majority of a ball python’s diet, but make sure to vary their meals to provide the necessary nutrition.
By following these initial steps, your ball python will be on its way to a happy and healthy life.
