Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Is a Piebald Ball Python?

Anna Harrison
Anna Harrison

The piebald ball python, or Python regius text, is a large non-venomous snake that is a morph of the standard ball python. It is covered in irregular white blotches over at least part of its body, and can be found in both high white and low white varieties. The first one was found and killed in Ghana in 1966, and most wild piebalds can be found there, as well as in Togo, as of 2011. While popular as an imported pet, any potential piebald ball python owner should be aware of the size, breeding habits, and feeding tendencies of this breed.

These African pythons were bred by Peter Kahl in the 1990s and have since become popular exotic pets in the United States and Europe, where they are called royal pythons. The white pigmentation that exists in these types of pythons is an inherited genetic trait. When both parents are piebald, 100% of the babies will have the same unique white coloring, but in varying amounts. However, two standard ball pythons may also produce piebald babies, since the trait can be recessive.

Piebald ball pythons eat mice.
Piebald ball pythons eat mice.

There are two types of piebald ball pythons: high whites and low whites. The high white variety is nearly all white, with just a few patches of normal python patterning. Low whites, on the other hand, have the standard python markings over most of their bodies, with just a few white patches. Both types are equal in value. The pastel ball python has been bred with the piebald in recent years to create a piebald python morph that has lighter patterned markings, which contrast beautifully with the white areas.

Pythons are not venomous, generally large, and can be found in Africa, Asia and Australia.
Pythons are not venomous, generally large, and can be found in Africa, Asia and Australia.

These snakes are among the largest in existence, but are one of the smaller python species. They frequently grow to 5 feet (1.5 m) in length, and the females are larger and heavier than the males. Males also have smaller heads with longer spurs than those on the females. Pythons in the wild may live for 20 years or more, and those in captivity can live several years longer.

Piebald ball pythons typically do not bite unless they feel threatened.
Piebald ball pythons typically do not bite unless they feel threatened.

The female piebald ball python lays from two to ten eggs, which incubate for 56 days. The hatchlings are about 14 inches (36 cm) long when they emerge from their eggs. In captivity, most hatchlings survive, though, in the wild, many would likely be eaten by predators, including large mammals and birds.

There are several things a potential owner should know about the care of a piebald ball python. Since these pet reptiles are sedentary, they do not require a lot of space and can be kept in a large container or aquarium with a tight-fitting lid. Piebald ball pythons are docile and do not bite unless they feel threatened, and are called ball pythons for their tendency to curl up in a ball when they are scared. The piebald ball python feeds on small rodents, and may eat just one in a week. A pet snake can be fed rats or mice that have been killed, but imported snakes may refuse to eat for an extended period of time, since they may have been fed a different species.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a piebald ball python?

A piebald ball python is a captivating morph of the common ball python species, characterized by its unique pattern of unpigmented patches amidst a normal base color. These white areas can cover anywhere from a small portion to a majority of the snake's body, creating a striking contrast that makes them highly sought after by reptile enthusiasts.

How rare are piebald ball pythons?

Piebald ball pythons are considered relatively rare due to their genetic mutation, but they have become more available in the pet trade thanks to selective breeding. Despite their increased presence in captivity, finding one with the perfect balance of white and patterned scales can still be a rare and exciting discovery for collectors and hobbyists.

Can piebald ball pythons be found in the wild?

While piebald ball pythons are predominantly seen in captivity, they do occur naturally in the wild, albeit infrequently. The piebald trait is a genetic anomaly, and such specimens in the wild often face greater predation risks due to their conspicuous coloring, which can make them easier targets for predators.

Are piebald ball pythons genetically healthy?

Yes, piebald ball pythons are generally as healthy as their non-piebald counterparts. The piebaldism is simply a color morph and does not inherently affect the snake's overall health or lifespan. However, as with all pets, proper care and husbandry are essential to ensure a healthy life for these unique reptiles.

What kind of care do piebald ball pythons require?

Piebald ball pythons require the same level of care as other ball python morphs, which includes a warm and humid environment, a secure enclosure, and a diet primarily of rodents. They thrive at temperatures between 75-90°F with a basking spot and need a humidity level of around 50-60% to maintain good health and facilitate shedding.

How much does a piebald ball python cost?

The cost of a piebald ball python can vary widely, typically ranging from $200 to over $1000, depending on the amount of white, the contrast of the pattern, and the breeder. High-quality specimens with a significant amount of white and strong contrast are often at the higher end of the price spectrum.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Piebald ball pythons eat mice.
      By: Anatolii
      Piebald ball pythons eat mice.
    • Pythons are not venomous, generally large, and can be found in Africa, Asia and Australia.
      Pythons are not venomous, generally large, and can be found in Africa, Asia and Australia.
    • Piebald ball pythons typically do not bite unless they feel threatened.
      By: Remus Moise
      Piebald ball pythons typically do not bite unless they feel threatened.