Ball Python (Pastel)
Python regiusCommon Names: Ball Python, Royal Python
Species Overview
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Size: Adults generally reach 35 feet (0.91.5 m), with females being larger and bulkier than males. Some females may approach 6 feet.
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Appearance:
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Pastel (co-dominant): One of the earliest and most influential morphs, Pastel enhances yellow and gold tones, reduces darker pigmentation, and sharpens contrast.
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In Super Pastel form (two copies), the snake becomes even brighter, with strong yellow colouration and faded head markings.
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As a base morph, Pastel is widely used to brighten and enhance other morphs, making it one of the most common genes in ball python projects.
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Distribution: Wild-type ball pythons are native to West and Central Africa, inhabiting open savannahs, farmland, and lightly forested edges.
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Habitat: Primarily terrestrial and burrow-dwelling, frequently occupying rodent burrows that offer stable humidity and shelter.
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Behaviour: A nocturnal ambush predator, preying on small mammals and birds.
Captive Care
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Enclosure: Adults thrive in a 40-gallon breeder (361818) or equivalent. Provide secure hides at both ends, climbing dcor, and a water bowl large enough for soaking.
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Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures of 7882F (2528C) with a basking area of 8892F (3133C). Allow nighttime drops to 7275F (2224C). Keep humidity at 5060%, with slight increases during shedding.
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Diet: Juveniles should be offered hopper mice or rat pups every 57 days; adults thrive on medium rats every 1014 days. Match prey to the snakes girth.
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Behaviour in Captivity: Pastels are docile, hardy, and easy to handle, making them excellent for both new and experienced keepers.
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Special Considerations: While Pastel changes colouration, husbandry requirements are the same as all other ball python morphs.
Genetics Note
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Pastel (Co-Dominant): A single copy enhances yellow/gold tones, contrast, and brightness.
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Super Pastel (homozygous form): Produces very bright yellows and reduced dark pigmentation, often used as a foundation for creating high-contrast designer morphs.
The Pastel Ball Python is a classic and foundational morph in the reptile hobby, prized both for its attractive appearance and for its ability to brighten and enhance countless multi-gene combinations.
