Essential care information for new and existing owners.
Life expectancy for ball pythons is typically 20-30 years with proper care.
Habitat
Ball pythons need an enclosure with space to move, hide, and explore.
Minimum size:
- Minimum 90–120cm enclosure
Enclosure setup:
- Substrate: aspen, paper, or coconut fiber
- Hides on both warm & cool sides
- Lots of hiding spots
Diet
Ball pythons are carnivores and require a diet of appropriately sized rodents.
Main diet:
- Frozen/thawed mice only (never live unless necessary)
- Size of prey should be no larger than the widest part of the snake
- Prey weight = 10–15% of snake’s body weight
- Can be picky eaters
- Feed juveniles every 5-7 days, adults every 7-10 days
- Provide fresh water at all times
Temperature & Environment
- Warm side: 31–33°C
- Cool side: 24–26°C
- Humidity High: 50%-80%
- Heat mat or lamp (with thermostat!)
Provide a temperature gradient to allow the snake to regulate its body temperature.
Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and drafts.
Ball pythons are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and can suffer from stress or illness.
Hygiene & Care
- Spot clean regularly
- Full clean every 1-2 weeks
- Fresh water daily
Regularly check for signs of illness (lethargy, refusal to eat, respiratory issues).
Handle gently and infrequently to reduce stress, especially when new.
