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 Spider Ball Python?

Judith Smith Sullivan
Judith Smith Sullivan

A spider ball python is a hybrid or mutated form of ball python with specific markings. It typically has thin black lines that run horizontally on its body and a pale yellow background color. The markings are often compared to the design of a spider web. The spider ball python is not a separate species of python, simply a different color pattern. The term "ball python" refers to its method of curling up into a tight, round form when it is threatened or afraid.

In the wild, pythons are endangered. Most breeding takes place in captivity, and breeders are typically professional herpetologists who sell snakes for profit. Some other breeders are simply collectors who enjoy having snakes with different types of markings.

Spider ball pythons are very popular as pets. Males typically grow to 3 to 4 feet in length (about 90-120 cm). Females are slightly larger, growing up to 4.5 (about 137 cm) long.

Spider ball pythons eat mice.
Spider ball pythons eat mice.

Like boas, a spider ball python is a constrictor. In order to feed, it wraps its body around an animal, restricting the animal's ability to breathe, and eats it whole. Its preferred prey is small rodents, like rats and mice. During the winter, ball pythons will not feed for four to five months.

The lifespan of a spider ball python can be long as 50 years in captivity, but they more commonly live 20-30 years. Male pythons are usually sexually mature at one year old. Females, however, are not ready to breed until they weigh at least 2.7 pounds (1200 grams), and are two years old.

Ball pythons like small close quarters. They are uncomfortable in large cages and prefer to have a hiding place to which they can retreat. They also prefer warm temperatures, typically between 85-88 degrees Fahrenheit (29.5-31 degrees Celsius), but as low as 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) during winter.

Basic genetics can predict the offspring when spider ball pythons breed. The spider ball python may be homozygous, meaning it only carries mutant genes, or heterozygous, meaning it carries both mutant and normal genes. Typically, whenever a spider ball python is bred with another snake, whether it is another spider mutation or a different variation, it will produce some percentage of spider ball mutants.

Based on the coupling, the offspring may include spider mutants, non-mutants, "normals," or "supers." Supers are offspring which exhibit the next step in mutation, typically with even paler colors and thinner black lines. Some offspring are also carriers of the mutant gene, even if they appear to be normal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Spider Ball Python?

A Spider Ball Python is a morph of the common Ball Python, known for its distinctive spiderweb-like pattern. This morph exhibits a reduced pattern with lines and blushing, creating an appearance reminiscent of a spider's web. They are popular in the pet trade due to their unique look and generally docile nature.

Are Spider Ball Pythons genetically different from regular Ball Pythons?

Yes, Spider Ball Pythons have a genetic mutation that affects their skin pigmentation, resulting in the spiderweb pattern. This mutation is hereditary, meaning it can be passed down to offspring. Despite this difference, they share the same species, Python regius, with regular Ball Pythons.

Do Spider Ball Pythons have any special care requirements?

Spider Ball Pythons require similar care to other Ball Python morphs, including a warm and humid environment, appropriate substrate, hiding spots, and a diet of rodents. However, some may exhibit a neurological condition known as the "wobble syndrome," which requires careful monitoring and potentially special accommodations to ensure they can eat and thrive.

How long do Spider Ball Pythons live?

With proper care, Spider Ball Pythons can live for 20 to 30 years in captivity. Their lifespan is comparable to that of other Ball Python morphs. Consistent husbandry, including a balanced diet and regular veterinary check-ups, contributes to their longevity.

Can Spider Ball Pythons be bred with other morphs?

Spider Ball Pythons can be bred with other morphs to produce a variety of offspring with different patterns and colors. Breeders often do this to create new and visually striking morphs. However, it's important to consider the potential for passing on the wobble syndrome when breeding Spider Ball Pythons.

Are there any ethical concerns regarding the breeding of Spider Ball Pythons?

There are ethical concerns regarding the breeding of Spider Ball Pythons, primarily due to the wobble syndrome associated with the spider gene. Some argue that breeding animals with known neurological issues is inhumane. As a result, the reptile community is divided, with some breeders choosing not to work with this morph to prevent the propagation of the condition.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Spider ball pythons eat mice.
      By: Anatolii
      Spider ball pythons eat mice.