Albino Black Pastel Ball Python: Rare Morph, Care Tips, & Genetics

Marie curie

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Are you captivated by the allure of rare snake morphs? The Albino Black Pastel Ball Python combines vibrant colours and intriguing genetics that stand out in any collection.

What makes this morph unique, and how can you provide its best care?

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of the Albino Black Pastel morph and uncover what makes it a must-have for reptile enthusiasts!

Albino Black Pastel Ball Python History & Genetics

The Albino Black Pastel Royal Python has a fascinating history rooted in the world of reptile breeding. It combines two distinct morphs: the Albino ball python & the Black Pastel ball python.

The Albino gene was first discovered in the early 2000s, introducing a striking, colourless snake with bright yellow patterns.

The Black Pastel gene followed, known for its dark, rich colouration and unique markings.

When these two genes are combined, they create the stunning Albino Black Pastel, featuring bold contrast with a creamy white body and vibrant yellow or orange patterns.

This morph has quickly gained popularity due to its eye-catching appearance and intriguing genetics, making it a prized possession for many snake enthusiasts.

Albino Black Pastel Ball Python Characteristics

Albino Black Pastel Ball Python Appearance

Body Color: The Albino Black Pastel features a striking, creamy white body adorned with vibrant yellow and orange patterns. This contrast makes it visually stunning.

Shape: Like all Ball Pythons, it has a thick, muscular body that is both robust and elegant.

Eyes: Its eyes are a captivating ruby red, a hallmark of the Albino trait, adding to its unique beauty.

Head Shape: The head is broad and slightly pointed, with bold markings that reflect its overall colour scheme.

Tail: The tail is short and tapers off, consistent with the species’ characteristic shape.

Speed: They are generally slow-moving, preferring to explore at a leisurely pace rather than darting around.

Albino Black Pastel Size & Weight

  • Size: Adult Albino Black Pastel Ball Pythons typically grow to be about 3 to 5 feet long.
  • Weight: They usually weigh between 2 to 5 pounds, with females generally being larger than males.

Behavior & Temperament

Known for their calm and gentle nature, they are excellent pets for both beginners and experienced keepers. They tend to be curious and enjoy exploring their surroundings.

When threatened, they may curl up, a behaviour typical of Ball Pythons, but they generally handle well when socialized from a young age.

Black Pastel Albino Ball Python Lifespan

With proper care, they can live between 20 to 30 years, making them a long-term commitment for pet owners.

Albino Black Pastel Ball Python Cost

  • Hatchlings: You can expect to pay around $300 to $600 for hatchling Albino Black Pastel Ball Pythons.
  • Adults: Adult specimens typically range from $600 to $1,200, depending on their genetics and appearance.
  • Julien (Special Combos): Unique combinations featuring this morph can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or more.

Where to Buy

The best places to purchase Black Pastel Albino Ball Pythons are reputable breeders, online marketplaces like MorphMarket, or specialized reptile expos.

Albino Black Pastel Ball Python Breeding & Reproduction

Breeding Albino Black Pastel Ball Pythons is an exciting process that combines two key traits: the Albino and the Black Pastel genes.

To start, both the male and female snakes should be healthy and of breeding size—typically, the female should weigh at least 1,500 grams.

 Introduce the male to the female during the breeding season, usually from November to March.

After mating, the female will lay 4 to 8 eggs around 30 days after ovulation. These eggs need to be incubated at around 88-90°F.

After about 55-60 days, the hatchlings will emerge. Each baby will carry the Albino and Black Pastel genes, with unique colour patterns and combinations that can make them truly stunning!

Breeding these snakes can produce beautiful, high-demand morphs, making it rewarding for both enthusiasts and breeders.

Albino Black Pastel Ball Python Care Sheet

1. Housing/Enclosure

  • Enclosure Size:
    Hatchlings can start in a 10-gallon tank, while juveniles will need at least a 20-gallon enclosure. Adults thrive in a 40-gallon tank or larger. Ensure the enclosure is secure with a tight-fitting lid to prevent escapes.
  • Substrate:
    Aspen, cypress mulch, or paper towels are recommended bedding materials. Aspen allows for burrowing, while paper towels are more hygienic and easier to clean.
  • Decorations:
    Add branches, rocks, or climbing objects to simulate a natural environment. These elements provide enrichment, allowing your python to explore and climb.

2. Temperature & Heating

  • Warm Side:
    The basking area should maintain a temperature of 88-92°F to ensure your python can thermoregulate.
  • Cool Side:
    Keep the cooler side of the enclosure at 75-80°F to provide a range of temperatures.
  • Heat Source:
    Heat lamps, ceramic heat emitters, or under-tank heaters are suitable options. Use thermostats to regulate and prevent overheating. Never place heating elements directly inside the enclosure.

3. Humidity


Maintain a humidity level of 50-60%. This helps with shedding and overall health.

  • Maintaining Humidity:
    You can mist the enclosure lightly or use a larger water bowl to raise humidity. Providing a humidity box (a small hide filled with moist substrate) during shedding can also assist.
  • Shedding Tips:
    Adequate humidity prevents stuck sheds, which is essential for Albino Black Pastels due to their skin sensitivity.

4. Lighting

They do not require UVB lighting, but some owners prefer to use it for day/night cycle regulation.

Day/Night Cycle: Maintain a 12-hour day/night light cycle to mimic their natural environment. This can be achieved with natural lighting or a simple light timer.

5.  Albino Black Pastel Ball Python Diet

They typically eat rodents, such as mice or rats, based on their size.

Feeding Frequency: Hatchlings should be fed every 5-7 days, juveniles every 7-10 days, and adults every 10-14 days.

It is safer to offer frozen-thawed prey to avoid injuries from live prey. Ensure the food is properly thawed and warmed to body temperature before feeding.

6. Water

Keep fresh, clean water available at all times. The water dish should be sturdy and large enough for the snake to soak in if it chooses.

Soaking in the water dish can help with hydration and shedding, especially during the shedding process.

7. Handling

Handle your python 2-3 times a week for short sessions to help it get accustomed to human interaction.

Avoid handling during or right after feeding, as this can stress the snake and lead to regurgitation.

8. Shedding

  • Shedding Frequency: Younger snakes shed more frequently, while adult shedding happens less often.
  • Signs of Shedding: Look for dull, flaky skin and cloudy eyes as signs that shedding is imminent.
  • Shedding Assistance: Keep the humidity in check, as improper humidity can cause stuck sheds. Offering a humidity box or soaking the snake can help facilitate a clean shed.

9. Health & Common Issues

  • Common Health Problems:
    Watch for respiratory infections, mites, and shedding issues (especially stuck sheds). These are the most common problems among Ball Pythons.
  • Signs of Illness:
    Wheezing, excess mucus, lack of appetite, or unusual lethargy are signs of illness. Consult a reptile veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms.
  • Preventive Care:
    Regularly clean the enclosure, maintain optimal temperatures and humidity, and provide a stress-free environment to prevent common health issues.

10. Cleaning & Maintenance

Remove waste daily to maintain a clean environment and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.

Full Cleaning: Conduct a full enclosure cleaning every 4-6 weeks. Replace the substrate, clean and disinfect the tank, and ensure all decorations and hides are cleaned.

Conclusion

The Albino Black Pastel Ball Python is a breathtaking combination of vibrant colors and gentle temperament, making it a standout in any collection.

Its unique genetics, calm nature, and striking appearance have made it a favorite among snake enthusiasts.

Whether for breeding or as a captivating pet, this morph is sure to leave a lasting impression!

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