Royal Python (Python regius) Care Sheet

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Quick Facts

Scientific Name: Python regius
Common Names: Royal Python, Ball Python
Origin: West and Central Africa
Adult Size: 120–180 cm (4–6 ft) in length; females typically larger and heavier than males
Lifespan: 20–30 years in captivity, some exceeding 40 years
Sex Differences: Females are larger and heavier-bodied; males have longer, slimmer tails with visible hemipenal bulges
Beginner Suitability: Moderate – docile species, but feeding and husbandry require careful attention

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Enclosure

Size: Hatchlings can be housed in 45 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm (18 x 12 x 12 inches). Adults require at least 120–150 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm (4–5 ft x 2–2.5 ft x 2 ft). Longer enclosures are preferred; vertical height is less important.

Substrate: Use Coco husk, coir, cypress mulch, or a humidity holding substrate. Avoid cedar or pine. Substrate should allow secure burrowing and moisture retention.

Hides: Provide at least two hides—one on the hot side and one on the cool side. Include secure, snug hiding spots at both ends of the enclosure.

Heating: Maintain a hot spot of 31–33°C and a cool side of 24–26°C. Night temperatures can safely drop to 21–23°C. Use overhead ceramic heaters or heat mats regulated with a thermostat. Avoid direct heat sources that can cause burns and ensure to always use a heater guard.

Lighting: UVB is not required but low-level UVB (2–5%) is optional. Maintain a 12-hour light / 12-hour dark cycle.

Humidity: Maintain 50–60% humidity. Provide a shallow water dish for soaking and drinking. Monitor humidity to prevent respiratory infections. Boost humidity when you notice them going into shed.

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Diet

Primary Diet Type: Carnivore

Food Items: Feed appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents. Hatchlings take pinkies or fuzzies, juveniles take hoppers, and adults take adult mice or rats depending on size.

Feeding Frequency: Hatchlings every 5–7 days. Juveniles every 7–10 days. Adults every 10–14 days.

Feeding Troubleshooting: Royal Pythons can be picky feeders and may refuse food during shedding, stress, or seasonal changes. Use thawed rodents of appropriate size. Avoid live prey unless necessary, and never feed wild-caught rodents.

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Water

Provide a shallow water dish with clean water at all times. Royal Pythons may soak occasionally. Change water regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

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Behavior And Handling

Royal Pythons are generally docile and tolerate handling well. Support the full body and avoid handling immediately after feeding. They are solitary and should not be housed together except during controlled breeding.

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Enrichment

Include branches, rocks, and climbing structures for enrichment. Provide substrate suitable for burrowing. Occasionally rearrange décor to encourage exploration.

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Health

Signs of illness include lethargy, refusal to eat, abnormal stool, respiratory issues, or swelling. Maintain proper temperature and humidity. Consult a reptile-specialist veterinarian if issues persist.

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Lifespan

Typically 20–30 years in captivity, with some individuals living over 40 years under optimal care.

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Legality In The UK

Royal Pythons are legal to keep in the UK. No licence is required for private ownership. Owners must comply with Welfare of Animals regulations.

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Difficulty Bars (Relative)