Ball Python (Pastel)

Python regius
Common Names: Ball Python, Royal Python

Species Overview

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

• Appearance:

  • Pastel (co-dominant): One of the earliest and most influential morphs, Pastel enhances yellow and gold tones, reduces darker pigmentation, and sharpens contrast.

  • In Super Pastel form (two copies), the snake becomes even brighter, with strong yellow colouration and faded head markings.

  • 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.

• Distribution: Wild-type ball pythons are native to West and Central Africa, inhabiting open savannahs, farmland, and lightly forested edges.

• Habitat: Primarily terrestrial and burrow-dwelling, frequently occupying rodent burrows that offer stable humidity and shelter.

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

Captive Care

• Enclosure: Adults thrive in a 40-gallon breeder (36” × 18” × 18”) or equivalent. Provide secure hides at both ends, climbing décor, and a water bowl large enough for soaking.

• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures of 78–82°F (25–28°C) with a basking area of 88–92°F (31–33°C). Allow nighttime drops to 72–75°F (22–24°C). Keep humidity at 50–60%, with slight increases during shedding.

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

• Behaviour in Captivity: Pastels are docile, hardy, and easy to handle, making them excellent for both new and experienced keepers.

• Special Considerations: While Pastel changes colouration, husbandry requirements are the same as all other ball python morphs.

Genetics Note

• Pastel (Co-Dominant): A single copy enhances yellow/gold tones, contrast, and brightness.

• 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.