There is another well-known reptile morph called the pastel black ball python. A dominant mutation results in this color variety. You only need one copy of this gene to get this color. The United States began production of this morph. (a carefully developed animal) in the country in 2002. You may come across another, closely related form of the cinnamon python. Its name comes from its defensive posture when sensing danger. It is in the perfect position to attack and use the paint properly.
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Quick Facts About Black Pastel Ball Python Morph
| Species Name: | Python regius |
| Common Name: | Black Pastel Ball Python morph |
| Care Level: | Moderate |
| Lifespan: | Up to 30 years or more |
| Adult Size: | Females: 3’–5’ L; Males: 2’–3’ L |
| Diet: | Small to medium-sized rodents |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 40 gallons for juveniles; at least 4’ L for adults |
| Temperature & Humidity: | 78℉–80℉; 50%–60% |
Do Black Pastel Ball Pythons Make Good Pets?
The Black Pastel Ball Python’s gentle personality has made it widely popular. This makes them suitable pets even for those who have never had a snake before. Its size is another advantage. Large reptiles can be difficult to care for and feed due to their size. Another issue that needs to be addressed is cost and availability. which we will discuss later. If not, There are several reasons to consider this animal as a potential next pet.
Black Ball Python Appearance
Black ball python vary in size. And that’s the first thing you’ll notice. It is a relatively small animal compared to other related species, such as the netted python. This reptile can reach up to 20 feet in length. Its tangled yellow-brown lines stand out against its dark brown body. The tongue is forked and the snout is pointed. The top of the head is plain. Adolescents are usually paler. The python’s spotted color helps it blend seamlessly into the groves and savannas of West Africa. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)1 lists the parent species as one of the species of least concern.
How to Take Care of Black Ball Python
Habitat, Tank Conditions & Setup
When breeding reptiles The challenge is trying to recreate their natural environment. which must maintain humidity and temperature within the appropriate range Remember that reptiles are cold-blooded animals. Therefore, their body temperature matches the ambient temperature. Wind gusts and sudden falls are dangerous for these animals.
Tank
The ideal living space for a pastel black ball python is an aquarium. The aquarium is suitable for maintaining conditions within the recommended range. For adult snakes, a 40-gallon tank is the minimum size. This will give your snake enough room to move around. and is the basis for decoration and hidden spots such as driftwood. A weekly deep tank cleaning should be included in your schedule. It keeps the environment healthy and protects it from bacterial and fungal infections. Unfortunately, disease-causing microorganisms thrive in the same conditions as pythons. We recommend cleaning empty aquarium glass and decorations with a gentle bleach solution.
Lighting
If your pastel black boa receives 8 to 12 hours of light each day, It will grow. This means that the location of your pet’s living space may be affected. A good way to make sure your snake gets enough light is to use a timer or smart plug. However, don’t leave it on all the time. The resulting abnormal environment can disrupt the reptile’s heart rhythm.
Heating (Temperature & Humidity)
Your ball python needs a temperature of at least 78°F, preferably no lower than 75°F. It’s a good idea to create a basking area for your pet where temperatures can reach up to 90 degrees. Installing an infrared ceramic lamp helps. It is easier to maintain a comfortable temperature at night. without being disturbed by other light. Be sure to check the temperature of the aquarium with a thermometer. There are also composite devices that show the humidity level. Helps you keep your fish tank clean. These animals need a lot of water. It also helps when your pet peels off the skin.
Substrate
Coconut fiber is an excellent, inexpensive, and practical starting material. You can also recycle or use it for other garden plants. Other solutions Equally effective are aspen chips and moist sphagnum moss. Place the layer at least 3 inches apart to give your snake enough room to burrow into the substrate.
Feeding Your Black Ball Python
Black Pastel Ball Pythons, like all carnivorous snakes, eat birds, rodents, and other prey. Depends on the growth stage Interestingly, their nutritional preferences vary depending on their sexual orientation. Males prefer birds, while females tend to eat small mammals. This may partially explain the large sexual dimorphism observed between the sexes. We recommend beautiful rodents before giving them to pets. Snakes can be more easily injured by frightened animals and may be more vulnerable to health problems. Feed young animals once a week. Adults can skip meals for up to two weeks at a time. If your python has a large appetite Feed it smaller prey. There is always fresh water for bathing and drinking.
Keeping Your Black Ball Python Healthy
The only sure-fire way to keep a Black Pastel Ball Python healthy long-term is to follow the required conditions. Recall that this python grows in an area where everything is approximately constant. Including the amount of sunlight. This should be your main focus. To make sure everything is in perfect condition. Installing a thermometer and hydrometer in the tank can provide important information.
Common Health Issues
Bright, flawless skin is a sign that your python is healthy. My eyes are clear as well. Molting is an exception. But more on this later.
Black Ball Python Lifespan
black pastel balls Under appropriate conditions A python can live up to 20 years, with some cases reaching 30 years. Outdoor animals have a much shorter lifespan because they are exposed to many dangers. The other side of the food chain Meat and leather are often targeted. It is also affected by the pet trade, both legal and illegal.
Black Ball Python Breeding
The first step in the complex breeding process is to obtain healthy adults. The first thing you need to do is find a compatible partner for your reptile. For eggs, you will need an incubator. In the wild, pythons usually breed from mid-November to mid-March. The temperature must drop markedly in order for mating to begin. Keep in mind that males and females mature at different times. The female has a lifespan of 30 months and the male has a lifespan of 18 months. The male can store eggs in his body for several months until successful mating is known. Before ovulation, the female sheds her skin and searches for a suitable location. Two things should be noted. This is when the females start to become more aggressive. This is Snake’s grizzly mode. Some states prohibit the keeping of reptiles that may harm the local fauna. Contact your state’s Department of Natural Resources to inquire about legality and whether a permit is required.
Is the Black Ball Python Friendly? Our Handling Advice
The best way to start catching your pet is to do it slowly. and avoid unexpected movements Of course, it’s best to start as early as possible. Remember that pythons will take a defensive stance if they are uncomfortable. Give the snake some space. We recommend that you do not handle the molting or mating of female pets.
Shedding & Brumation: What to Expect
When it’s almost time to shed fur You will notice a change in your pet’s behavior. Your pet may become more lethargic or refuse to eat. Cloudy eyes are one sure sign. By nature Eyesight will be impaired. and becomes easily agitated when suddenly touched or moved Healthy animals shed their skin completely. Even though you’re excited right now But you can still be at risk of infection.
How Much Do Black Ball Python Price?
This morph is produced within the country. Therefore, availability may vary. Although these different varieties are not taken into account. But the original breed is still well known. For a healthy snake You should have a budget of at least $200, possibly hundreds of dollars. Some professional breeders can earn four-figure sums for pythons if they have very attractive baby pythons. Next is the cost of decorating your pet’s living space. We recommend choosing a 40 gallon aquarium to avoid the need for future upgrades and save money. Ball Pythons grow quickly and reach adulthood in just a few years. As mentioned above You will also need a source of heat and light. Substrate and feed are ongoing costs. But this will be minimal compared to the initial investment. Plus, you’ll have to change the bulbs from time to time. It costs approximately $300 to $600 per year to keep a python healthy.
Final Thoughts
Pet owners who just get a pastel black snake will greatly benefit from the Python Morph. Their small size and gentle personality make them a great first reptile. The key to getting the most out of your trip is making sure you have what Python needs. This will help keep it healthy and easier to manage. Adopting a new pet and arranging a place to stay can be the biggest challenge.
