Scaleless ball pythons are new discoveries in the reptile world. They are bred through genetic mutations. These animals are unique and beautiful to look at but there are some things you should know before you decide to get one as your pet.
Species falling in this category are classified into completely scaleless species and those with a reduced scale count. However, Scaleless ball pythons in general are scaleless except for the ocular scales found between their eyes. Regardless of this mutation, the scaleless ball python is a beautiful snake with unique and interesting features.
The scaleless ball python is a rare and beautiful morph from the python family. Because of this, they are hard to find are relatively expensive compared to other morphs.
These snakes are gaining popularity in the reptile community due to their interesting feature, but they also require special care in order to thrive in captivity. In this post, we will discuss the scaleless ball python’s appearance, diet, enclosure requirements and other relevant facts about them!
Appearance/Size
Scaleless ball pythons are typically scaleless and have smooth skin with beautiful coloration. Despite their lack of scales, they have the same appearance and beauty as other ball pythons. This animal also has a more vibrant coloration compared to scaled ones. The patterns, on the other hand, are more vivid and and appealing.
The only disadvantage of not having scales is the fact that they have limited skin protection. Scales are the protective layer of keratin that covers the bodies of most reptiles. In its absence, the animal is more prone to cuts and other forms of injury.
As to the size of these animals, they can reach the typical size of three to five feet in length. Female species are also larger compared to their male counterparts.
What they eat
Scaleless ball pythons are fed with a diet of small live prey items such as mice and rats. Some are also fed with pre-killed prey items available in the local pet store. Although feeding live prey is generally encouraged, caution must be observed since this animal has delicate skin. Furthermore, feeding live prey is essential to ignite their innate hunting behavior.
Scaleless ball pythons are not picky eaters and will readily accept most common snake food items provided. However, it is important to ensure that your snake’s food items are not larger than the widest part of its body to prevent your pet from becoming overweight.
As to the frequency of feeding, juveniles are fed once a week. On the other hand, adult ball phytons must be fed once every 10 to 14 days.
How Long they Live
Scaleless ball pythons have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years under suitable conditions. The lifespan of this animal is usually longer in captivity where they are provided with adequate care under a well-controlled environment. Unlike their situation in the wild where they are in constant danger due to the threat of predation.
Type of Enclosure
Scaleless ball pythons do not have any special enclosure requirements and can be kept in a standard glass terrarium with size,48 by 12 by 16 or 40-gallon container. Although bigger containers are generally advisable, they don’t need the same since they are only moderate in size.
As with all snakes, it is important to provide your pet with hiding places so it can feel secure in its environment. Hiding places can be made from PVC pipes or commercial reptile hides or clay pots.
They also require the right amount of humidity and temperature in order to thrive. The recommended temperature level is 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit in the cool area while the warm area must have 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidity level, on the other hand, shall be maintained in the 50-60%
The enclosure must also have the right kind of substrate capable of holding moisture such as coco coir or sphagnum moss. The enclosure should also have hiding places and climbing branches where they can play. A UVB light should be provided to help with calcium absorption.
Breeding
Breeding ball python starts by finding a credible breeder who is also knowledgeable and experienced in breeding the species. It is material to educate yourself on what is the right way to breed them so as to avoid unnecessary waste of resources and time.
The next step is to prepare the breeding enclosure which will serve as the room for your animal’s reproduction. The enclosure must be big enough to cater them both. It is important that it’s big so that the animals have enough room to move.
Temperature is also important in breeding and the same must be maintained between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime and between 72 and 74 degrees at night. The humidity level, on the other hand, should be between 50 and 60 percent.
Once everything is set up, you can gradually introduce them to each other. You can do it by placing their enclosure close to each other so that they will be slowly acquainted. After a few days, you can place them in the same enclosure. During this time, it is important to monitor whether they are compatible with each other. If everything goes well, they will mate within a few weeks.
After the snakes have mated, the female will start to lay their eggs after 4 to 5 weeks. The eggs need to be incubated at 86 degrees Fahrenheit for about 60 days before they hatch.
Once the eggs are hatched, you can start feeding them with small live food such as small rats or lizards. You must also handle them as much as possible so that they will get accustomed to humans. By handling them from time to time, biting or aggressive behavior when touched will be prevented or lessened.
Final Thoughts
The scaleless ball pythons are not only low-maintenance animals. They are also beautiful and unique morph that makes an excellent pet for novice snake owners like you!
So, if you’re thinking about adding one of these snakes to your home, make sure to do your own research. In that way, you’ll be able to provide the right care that it needs in order to thrive.