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Description
Ball Python (Enchi)
Python regius
Common Names: Ball Python, Royal Python
Species Overview
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Size: Adult ball pythons typically reach 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 m), with females often being larger and bulkier than males. Some females may approach 6 feet.
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Appearance:
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The Enchi morph produces a cleaner, sharper pattern compared to wild-type ball pythons.
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Side “alien heads” are reduced, and markings are more rounded and less busy.
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Colouration is enhanced, with deeper oranges and golds, especially as the snake matures.
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Super Enchi (homozygous form) intensifies these effects, producing very bright snakes with reduced patterning.
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Distribution: Native to West and Central Africa, where wild-type ball pythons are widespread.
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Habitat: Wild populations thrive in savannahs, scrublands, and agricultural areas, spending much of their time in rodent burrows.
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Behaviour: A nocturnal ambush predator, feeding primarily on small mammals and birds.
Captive Care
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Enclosure: Most adults thrive in a 40-gallon breeder (36” × 18” × 18”) or similar. Provide two hides (warm and cool), climbing décor, and a water bowl large enough for soaking.
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Temperature & Humidity: Keep a daytime gradient of 78–82°F (25–28°C) with a basking spot of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime dips to 72–75°F (22–24°C) are acceptable. Maintain humidity at 50–60%, with a humid hide for shedding.
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Diet: Juveniles eat hopper mice or rat pups every 5–7 days; adults typically take medium rats every 10–14 days. Prey should be scaled to the snake’s girth.
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Behaviour in Captivity: Ball pythons are docile, calm, and tolerant of handling, making them one of the most popular snakes in captivity.
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Special Considerations: While the Enchi morph alters appearance, its husbandry requirements remain the same as wild-type ball pythons.
Genetics Note
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Enchi (Co-Dominant): A pattern- and colour-enhancing morph that reduces alien heads, cleans up patterning, and deepens orange/gold hues.
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Super Enchi (Homozygous Form): Produces snakes with even more reduced patterning, brighter orange/yellow colouration, and overall cleaner appearance.
The Enchi Ball Python is a foundation morph prized for its ability to brighten and clean up complex combos, making it highly valuable both as a standalone animal and in multi-gene projects.