Reptile · Python
Ball python care guide
Python regius
The ball python is a beginner-level python from West and Central Africa. Adults reach 90–150 cm and live 20–30 years in captivity. Healthy adults often fast in winter; monitor weight rather than panicking over refused meals.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Warm 31–33°C, cool 24–27°C
- Humidity 55–75%
How much does a ball python cost in Canada?
Ball python quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- 90–150 cm
- Lifespan
- 20–30 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- West and Central Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 31–33°C, cool 24–27°C
- Humidity
- 55–75%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats and mice
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Ball python enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix12 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Warm 31–33°C, cool 24–27°C. Humidity: 55–75%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a ball python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats and mice. Feed an appropriately sized thawed rat every 10–14 days; juveniles every 7 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Docile and slow-moving; curls into a ball when nervous and rarely bites.
Health watch: Watch for respiratory infections, stuck sheds and seasonal fasting that alarms new owners.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a ball python bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 12 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Ball python FAQ
Is the ball python good for beginners?
Yes – the ball python is a good choice for beginners. Docile and slow-moving; curls into a ball when nervous and rarely bites.
What size enclosure does a ball python need?
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (about 47 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 114 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a ball python cost in Canada?
Typically $80–200 CAD to buy, about $990–1730 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–450 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a ball python need?
Temperature: Warm 31–33°C, cool 24–27°C. Humidity: 55–75%.
What does a ball python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats and mice. Feed an appropriately sized thawed rat every 10–14 days; juveniles every 7 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.