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General Information About the Ball Python (Python regius)
Ball pythons are found along the edges of the forest lands of Central and Western Africa. They are called ball pythons due to their habit of curling themselves up into a tight ball with their head pulled firmly into the center, when they are nervous or threatened. When choosing a Ball Python, it is best to purchase a captive bred specimen. They are tens of thousands of ball pythons imported every year for the pet trade and these tend to be extremely stressed out and prone to be infested with parasites and bacterial infections. There are numerous breeders that sell captive bred ball pythons and it is not too hard to find them either online of at local herp shows.
If you are looking to purchase a ball python from your local pet center, ask if it is captive born or wild caught. If you are told captive born, check the animal to make sure it has a clear firm skin, rounded body shape, clean vent, and is actively flicking its tongue around when handled. When held the snake should gently but firmly grip when moving around. It is also a good idea to gently rub up the throat area toward the mouth to see if any mucus or bubble are produced when you reach the mouth area. This would be a sign of a respiratory infection and the snake should not be bought. Always take a newly purchased snake to your local vet for a complete check up within 48 hours of purchasing it.