How Much Do Ball Pythons Cost?

A Ball Python is a python species primarily found in Africa.  Known to be a great pet for beginners, these snakes will tuck into a ball when they feel threatened or are confronted.

“Python regius – ball python” (CC BY 2.0) by  brian.gratwicke

How much does a ball python cost?

The price of a ball python will depend on the snake’s age, the breed’s rarity and the colors.  A baby ball python can cost you anywhere from $60 to $200, while a pastel or spider python can cost around $100 to $400.  A bumblebee ball python can cost upwards of $600.  There are hundreds upon hundreds of morphs/colors available on the market.  Refer to our chart below for the most popular types, along with the price range.

The most expensive python, according to this ball-pythons.net forum thread was said to be the Blue and Blacked Eyed Lucys, which sell for about $20,000.

A ball python, found at a local pet store such as PetSmart, can cost $30 to $70.  Local reptile breeders or shows will commonly sell its ball pythons for $50 to $175.

What are the extra costs?

A 20-gallon tank is recommended; however, the larger it is, the better it will be for your snake.  Most experts recommend a 40-gallon tank at a minimum.  A good tank should cost you about $100 to $200, but it can be much more than this, especially if you wish to customize it.

While optional, a tank stand may be necessary if you don’t have a table or desk to set it on.  Depending on the stand you want, this can be as little as $25 to more than $100.

A hiding area within the tank is highly ideal to give it a place to rest.  Old tissue boxes can work, but if you want specially designed hiding boxes, this can cost about $10 to $20.

A substrate will be needed and can run anywhere from as little as nothing for a newspaper to as much as $5 to $10 per bag of Aspen shavings for a snake bedding at your local pet store.

Your snake will need a heat source, and most owners prefer an under tank heater.  This type of heater can cost $20 to $50.  Additionally, you can purchase either a heat lamp or dome, and these can cost $10 to $35.  A thermometer and hygrometer are also highly recommended so you’re able to keep control of the temperature and humidity levels.  Both of these should cost less than $10 or less.  It’s important to keep the temperature between 78 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit and a 40 to 60 percent humidity level.

A water bowl will cost about $10.

Depending on how often your snake eats, it will cost about $1 to $3 per large mouse to feed your snake.  If you purchase frozen and in bulk, it can lower the prices a pinch.  If you have a larger adult snake, plan on feeding at least twice per week, while younger snakes will only need to eat once per week.

With all of the supplies factored in, it can cost about $350 to $500, depending on the specific items you purchase.  Other costs to think about include surprise vet bills.

Tips to know:

The average ball python reaches up to 60 inches in length.  The ball python’s growth rate slows down after its first three years.  Most species will reach sexual maturity between two to three years old.

Be sure to research the snake’s past.  Snakes that are caught in the wild don’t do well in captivity, so it’s always best to buy a snake that has been bred by a professional breeder.

This snake is usually advised for beginners since it won’t grow larger than five feet in length and they can be handled easily.

The ball python has a life span of up to 50 years.

It’ss called a ball python because it rolls into a ball when threatened.

When you take your snake home for the first time, avoid handling it for the first four to five years.  This will give it time to adjust to his new home.

Try to supply at least eight to 12 hours of light.

Avoid housing other snake species in the same cage.

When a ball python is ready to shed, its eyes will turn a blue/gray color over the course of a few days.  How often do ball pythons shed?  Depending on the age, they usually shed about every five to six weeks.

Make it a habit to clean the cage at least once per week.  When using cleaning products, try to focus on products that are designed for reptiles.  Failing to clean can lead to virus/bacterial infections such as scale rot, which can lead to costly vet bills.

Common health issues may include dermatitis, respiratory disease, stomatitis and mites.

Out of all snake species, the ball python is known to be one of the most harmless snakes.

Do ball pythons have teeth?  These snakes do have teeth and yes, they are long enough to draw blood; however, these are non-venomous snakes which kill their prey by constricting them.

Males will be smaller than females.  Females will be able to grow up to four and half feet long, while males will max out at about three and half feet long.

Ball python feeding chart

How can I save money?

Old clothing and newspaper may be used as bedding for the pet instead of purchasing bedding material.

Take a look at Craigslist and see if any owners are looking to get rid of their pet.  This is a great way to get the supplies and the snake at the same time.  However, before you consider doing this, make sure you know why the seller is getting rid of their snake.  A snake that isn’t properly taken care of can be aggressive and may strike wildly while handling it.  When choosing one, look for a well-rounded body, clean eyes and signs of no respiratory problems such as wheezing.  A healthy python will grip your hand tightly when handled.

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