Have you ever wondered what happens when two of the most stunning ball python morphs come together?
Meet the Albino Pied Ball Python—an exotic beauty with glowing white patches and vibrant yellow patterns.
Curious about its rarity, care, and why it’s such a favourite among collectors? Let’s dive into the world of this mesmerizing snake!
Albino Pied Ball Python History & Genetics
The Pied Albino Ball Python has a fascinating history that showcases the beauty of genetic diversity in reptiles.
This stunning morph is a combination of two traits: the Albino gene, which removes the dark pigments and creates a striking white snake with bright yellow markings, and the Pied gene, which adds random white patches throughout the body.
The first Albino Ball Pythons were discovered in the late 1990s, capturing the hearts of snake lovers worldwide.
The Pied gene was already known, but it wasn’t until breeders experimented with crossing these two traits that the Albino Pied emerged.
This combination not only resulted in a visually stunning snake but also highlighted the incredible possibilities within snake breeding.
Today, the Albino Pied is celebrated for its unique beauty and continues to be a favorite among reptile enthusiasts looking for something truly special.
Albino Pied Ball Python Traits
Appearance
Body Color: The Albino Pied Ball Python showcases a stunning mix of white and bright yellow. The white patches come from the Pied gene, while the yellow is a result of the Albino gene, creating a vibrant contrast.
Shape: This morph has a robust, muscular body typical of ball pythons, allowing for strong movements and climbing abilities.
Eyes: Its eyes are strikingly pink or red, a characteristic feature of albino snakes, giving it a unique and captivating look.
Head Shape: The head is slightly triangular and wider than the neck, providing a distinct appearance that helps in prey capture.
Tail: The tail is thick and tapering, consistent with the ball python’s overall robust body shape, aiding in balance and movement.
Speed: While not the fastest snakes, they are agile and can move quickly when necessary, especially when hunting or escaping.
Albino Pied Ball Python Size & Weight
Behavior and Temperament
Albino Pied Ball Python Lifespan
They can live between 20 to 30 years with proper care, making them long-term companions for reptile enthusiasts.
Albino Pied Ball Python Cost
Best Places to Buy
The best places to purchase them include reputable breeders who specialize in ball pythons, as they can provide detailed genetic information and health guarantees.
Online platforms like MorphMarket and local reptile expos are also excellent options, ensuring you get a healthy snake with a proper background.
Always do your research and choose a source known for ethical breeding practices to ensure the best care for your new pet.
Albino Pied Ball Python Breeding & Reproduction
Choosing Breeders:
- Select healthy, genetically diverse Albino Pied Ball Pythons for breeding.
- Ensure both snakes have good temperaments and are free from diseases.
Age and Size:
- Breeding should start when the females are at least 2-3 years old and weigh around 1,500 grams.
- Males can be younger, typically 1-2 years old and weighing 500-800 grams.
Breeding Season:
- The breeding season usually occurs from October to March.
- Provide a temperature drop to simulate seasonal changes, promoting breeding behavior.
Introducing Mates:
- Introduce the male to the female’s enclosure for a few days.
- Monitor their interactions closely; some males may take longer to breed than others.
Egg-Laying:
- After successful mating, the female will lay eggs about 30 days later.
- She typically lays 4 to 10 eggs per clutch, depending on her size and age.
Incubation:
- Place the eggs in an incubator with a temperature of 88-90°F and humidity around 80%.
- The incubation period lasts about 55 to 60 days.
Hatching:
- After incubation, the eggs will begin to hatch.
- Be gentle when handling hatchlings and ensure they have access to water and warmth.
Albino Pied Ball Python Care Sheet
1. Housing Requirements
- Enclosure Size: A minimum of 40 gallons for adults, preferably a glass terrarium with secure locking. Hatchlings can be kept in a smaller enclosure (10-20 gallons).
- Substrate: Use aspen shavings or coconut husk for bedding. Avoid cedar and pine as they can be harmful.
- Hiding Spots: Provide at least two hiding spots—one on the warm side and one on the cool side—to help your snake feel secure.
2. Temperature and Heating
- Temperature Gradient: Maintain a basking area around 90°F and a cool side around 75°F.
- Heating Sources: Utilize heat mats placed under one side of the enclosure and a basking lamp for additional warmth.
3. Humidity Levels
- Ideal humidity range is 40-60%. Use a hygrometer to monitor levels, and mist the enclosure lightly or provide a water bowl to maintain humidity.
4. Lighting
- Natural light cycles are sufficient. UVB lighting is not necessary, but providing a day/night cycle with ambient light can help regulate your snake’s behaviour.
5. Albino Pied Ball Python Diet
- Diet: Feed primarily on frozen/thawed rodents. Hatchlings should be fed every 5-7 days, while adults can be fed every 10-14 days.
- Feeding Method: Frozen/thawed is recommended to reduce the risk of injury; never feed live prey.
6. Handling
- Handle your Albino Pied morph gently and avoid excessive handling, especially after feeding. Limit interactions to 2-3 times per week to prevent stress.
7. Health Care
- Signs of a healthy snake include active behavior and a good appetite. Watch for lethargy, refusal to eat, or abnormal shedding as signs of illness. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for long-term health.
8. Shedding
- Albino Pied Ball Pythons typically shed every 4-6 weeks. Signs of impending sheds include dull skin and increased hiding. Ensure humidity is adequate to aid in the shedding process.
9. Common Issues
- Common health issues include respiratory infections and mites. Keep the enclosure clean and monitor temperatures and humidity to prevent these issues. Regularly inspect your snake for signs of pests or illness.
Conclusion
The Albino Pied Ball Python is a stunning and unique morph, combining the striking beauty of its contrasting colors with a calm demeanor, making it an ideal pet for snake enthusiasts.
With proper care and attention, these pythons can thrive and become cherished members of any reptile collection.
Their captivating appearance and gentle nature truly make them a standout choice among ball python morphs.