HABITAT  Western Africa- Savannah Grasslands, Open Forests

LIFE STYLE Docile. Primarily Terrestrial. Often found in burrows. Mainly Nocturnal.

SELECTING It is best to obtain captive born animals whenever possible. Select an animal that has a well-rounded body as opposed to one with pronounced ribs and backbone. If one handles the snake, the animal should feel muscular.

Check the snake for signs of illness:
Mouthrot will appear as caseous matter around the gum area.
Respiratory infection may be accompanied by bubbly mucus inside of the mouth.
Eyes should be clear (except when the snake is shedding or about to shed).
Broken ribs may appear as collapsed areas along the sides of the snake.
Infections may appear as raised and / or damaged scales.
Check the snake for ticks and mites.

CARE FOR YOUR NEW SNAKE It is suggested to have the animal's stool checked for parasites. Parasite treatment should be as indicated by the veterinarian. The animal should be handled as little as possible for 2 weeks.

ENCLOSURE
It is highly suggested that one purchase or build an enclosure specifically designed to house snakes. Ball Pythons are very accomplished escape artists. Size: 36" x 12". Undertank heaters are recommended instead of heat lamps, this aids in digestion. Ground Covering: Newspaper, shredded cypress or fir bark, or reptile carpet. Temperature: Day = 80-85 degrees F. Basking area = 90 degrees F. Night
= 75-80 degrees F. Feeding periods = 85-90 degrees F. Double check air and surface temperatures. Lighting: No special lighting is required as Ball Pythons are nocturnal. Hide Box should be provided. Climbing Branches should be provided. Humidity should be kept at a constant level of 80%.Glass tanks with mesh lids are sometimes discouraged, as this allows too much moisture to escape.

FEEDING
A healthy Ball Python should have the ability to and may choose to fast for several months. Hatchlings: Should feed on 10-day-old fuzzy mice approx. 2 weeks after their
first shed. Ball Pythons can eat mice, and fuzzy rats once or twice a week.

WATER
Water should be provided in a large shallow bowl. The bowl should be large enough to allow the snake to soak prior to shedding.  

PLEASE NOTE: These are general guidelines only. Please do as much research as possible before acquiring a new pet. Please, don't hesitate to call us if you have any questions.IMPORTANT: If you have any health concerns whatsoever for your pet, please seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible.  Reptile VeterinarianBlair Animal Hospital: 746-2443