Ball Python (Het MJ Axanthic)

Python regius
Common Names: Ball Python, Royal Python

Species Overview

• Size: Adults typically grow 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 m), with females often being larger and bulkier than males. Some females may reach 6 feet.

• Appearance:

  • This snake is heterozygous (Het) for MJ Axanthic, meaning it carries one copy of the recessive gene but does not display it visually.

  • Visually, it looks like a normal ball python or any incomplete-dominant morphs it may also carry.

  • Its genetic value lies in the potential to produce MJ Axanthic or MJ Axanthic combos when bred to the right partner.

• Distribution: Ball pythons are native to West and Central Africa, where they occur across savannahs, scrublands, and agricultural landscapes.

• Habitat: Primarily terrestrial burrow-dwellers, they spend much of their time in rodent burrows or other sheltered areas.

• Behaviour: A nocturnal ambush predator, feeding mainly on small mammals and birds.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: A 40-gallon breeder (36” × 18” × 18”) or similar enclosure works well for most adults. Provide two hides (warm and cool), climbing enrichment, and a water dish large enough for soaking.

• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a daytime gradient of 78–82°F (25–28°C) with a basking zone of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime drops to 72–75°F (22–24°C) are acceptable. Keep humidity between 50–60%, with a humid hide provided for shedding.

• Diet: Juveniles thrive on hopper mice or rat pups every 5–7 days; adults typically take medium rats every 10–14 days. Prey size should be scaled to the girth of the snake.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Ball pythons are known for their docile temperament and ease of handling, making them one of the most popular snakes in the hobby.

• Special Considerations: While morphs affect genetics and appearance, husbandry remains identical across all ball pythons.

Genetics Note

• MJ Axanthic (Recessive – Het Form): Removes red/yellow pigmentation, producing a black, grey, and white snake when expressed visually. MJ (Markus Jayne) is one of several axanthic lines and is not compatible with other lines (e.g., VPI, Jolliff, TSK).

• Het MJ Axanthic: Carries one copy of the MJ Axanthic gene. It does not show visual traits but can produce MJ Axanthics if bred to another carrier or visual MJ Axanthic.

The Het MJ Axanthic is a key building block for monochrome projects, prized for producing sharp black-and-grey snakes and advanced axanthic combos.