How To Properly Care For A Ball Python

A basic care sheet for the novice snake keeper.

Sandra Ivonne
Published in
3 min readDec 21, 2021

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The ball python is one of the most popular pets within the reptile enthusiast community. They are easy to care for, docile, and beginner-friendly. They come in an array of beautiful patterns and colors — otherwise known as “morphs” — and are overall intriguing creatures. Sometimes I would sit there next to my python’s feeding tank and watch her in action. I normally have a short attention span (thanks to ADHD), but I could sit there and watch her for days.

I have always loved animals, but this was my first experience with keeping any type of reptile as a pet. Not only that, but I learned so much from it, and have since helped educate people on proper care and selecting their first scaly friend.

I’m sure you’re here because you have either obtained your snake, are thinking of getting one, or you’re generally interested and curious about snakes. They’re all good reasons, and I’m excited to be able to guide you through this.

Either way, let’s go ahead and dive into it.

Size and Lifespan

Ball python hatchlings are approximately 10 inches in length. Female adult ball pythons average 3 to 5 feet long, and adult male ball pythons average 2 to 3 feet long. A mature…

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Sandra Ivonne
Creature Feature

Veterinary Assistant, abstract painter, bisexual, Mexican American, dog/cat mom & lover of coffee. I write about pet care, and whatever else strikes my fancy.