Pinstripe Pied Ball Python (Python regius) Care Sheet

Quick Facts

Attribute	Details
Common Name	Pinstripe Pied Ball Python
Scientific Name	Python regius
Origin	West and Central Africa – captive-bred morph
Adult Size	120–150 cm (females can grow slightly larger)
Lifespan	20–30 years in captivity
Activity	Nocturnal, terrestrial predator

Behavior

• Generally docile and easy to handle; may ball up when stressed or frightened.

• Terrestrial; spends much time hiding during the day.

• Nocturnal hunter; becomes active in the evening and night.

• Excellent beginner-friendly snake due to temperament.

Enclosure Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 90–120 liters for an adult; secure lid required

• Substrate: Aspen shavings, coconut fiber, or reptile-safe soil; allows burrowing

• Decor: Hides at both warm and cool ends, branches, rocks

• Humidity: 50–60% (slightly higher during shedding, ~65%)

• Temperature:

  • Basking / warm hide: 30–32°C

  • Ambient: 24–28°C

  • Night: 20–24°C

• Lighting: Indirect light; UVB optional but not required

• Ventilation: Moderate airflow

Compatibility

• Best housed singly; non-aggressive and generally tolerant of humans.

• Avoid cohabiting with other snakes to prevent stress or injury.

Diet

• Carnivorous; feeds on appropriately sized rodents:

  • Frozen-thawed or pre-killed mice or rats (size depending on snake age)

• Juveniles: feed every 5–7 days

• Adults: feed every 10–14 days

• Provide a shallow water dish for drinking and soaking

Care Tips

• Maintain consistent temperature and humidity for health and digestion.

• Spot-clean regularly; remove feces and shed.

• Offer multiple hides to reduce stress.

• Handle gently and regularly to maintain docility.

• Monitor for refusal to eat or abnormal shedding as signs of stress or illness.

Breeding

• Oviparous; females lay 4–12 eggs per clutch.

• Eggs incubate for 55–60 days at 31–32°C.

• Hatchlings are independent and require appropriately sized prey.

Visual Quick Guide

• 🏠 Enclosure: ≥90–120 L, hides, burrowable substrate

• 🌡️ Temp: Basking 30–32°C / Ambient 24–28°C / Night 20–24°C

• 💧 Humidity: 50–60% (65% during shedding)

• 🍴 Diet: Carnivorous (appropriately sized rodents)

• 🕒 Activity: Nocturnal, terrestrial

• ⚠️ Stress: Provide hides and stable environment; handle gently

Please note: We don't ship live animals. You can order online and choose click and collect, and we will hold it for you.