Captive Bred

Ball Python (Clown)

Tails and Scales
Sex: Male
Price:
$275.00
Stock:
Sold out
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Description

Ball Python (Clown)

Python regius
Common Names: Ball Python, Royal Python

Species Overview

  • Size: Adults usually reach 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 m), with females generally larger and bulkier than males. Exceptional females may approach 6 feet.

  • Appearance:

    • The Clown is a recessive morph known for its reduced, bold dorsal stripe, distinct head stamp, and busy, teardrop-shaped side patterns.

    • Colours are often rich earthy tones (brown, gold, tan), but combinations with other morphs can drastically alter this look.

    • Each Clown displays unique variation, but the clean head and bold dorsal striping are reliable identifiers.

  • Distribution: Native to West and Central Africa, where wild-type ball pythons are common.

  • Habitat: In the wild, ball pythons are terrestrial burrow-dwellers, living in rodent burrows, termite mounds, and under ground cover.

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

Captive Care

  • Enclosure: A 40-gallon breeder (36” × 18” × 18”) or equivalent enclosure is suitable for most adults. Provide at least two hides (warm and cool side), climbing décor, and a large water bowl for soaking.

  • Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a gradient of 78–82°F (25–28°C) with a basking spot of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime drops to 72–75°F (22–24°C) are acceptable. Humidity should remain around 50–60%, with a humid hide during shedding.

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

  • Behaviour in Captivity: Ball pythons are widely regarded as docile, calm, and easy to handle, making them one of the most popular snakes in the reptile hobby.

  • Special Considerations: While morphs like Clown drastically change appearance, husbandry remains identical to wild-type ball pythons.

Genetics Note

  • Clown (Recessive): Requires two copies of the gene to express visually. Clowns feature bold dorsal striping, unique head stamps, and reduced yet detailed side patterns.

  • Hets (Het Clown): Snakes carrying one copy of the Clown gene appear normal but can produce visual Clowns when paired with another het or visual Clown.

The Clown Ball Python is one of the most popular and versatile recessive morphs, forming the foundation for countless high-end designer combos.

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