Have you ever seen a snake that shines with bright yellow spots against dark patterns?
The Banana Mojave Ball Python is not just beautiful; it’s also highly sought after in the reptile world. But what makes this morph so special?
How much should you expect to pay for one, and what factors influence its price? If you’re curious about its unique traits, care tips, and breeding insights, let’s explore together!
Banana Mojave Ball Python History & Genetics
The Mojave Banana Ball Python is a captivating morph that combines the vibrant colours of the Banana morph with the intricate patterns of the Mojave.
The Banana morph was first discovered in the late 1990s, renowned for its stunning yellow hues and pink undertones.
The Mojave morph emerged shortly after, celebrated for its unique, dark patterns and the ability to produce beautiful offspring.
When these two morphs were combined, the result was the striking Banana Mojave morph, showcasing a blend of bright yellows and dark browns.
This unique pairing not only enhances its visual appeal but also enriches the genetic diversity of ball pythons, making it a favourite among breeders and enthusiasts.
The development of this morph has paved the way for countless breeding projects, as snake lovers seek to create even more stunning variations.
Banana Mojave Ball Python Characteristics
Banana Mojave Ball Python Appearance
Body Color: They have a beautiful mix of soft yellow and dark brown colours. The bright yellow scales look warm and friendly, while the dark patterns create a nice contrast.
Shape: This snake has a thick and strong body, typical for ball pythons, giving it a healthy and sturdy look.
Eyes: The eyes are usually bright and alert, adding to their attractive appearance.
Head Shape: The head is wide and triangular, which is common for ball pythons, with smooth edges that make it look unique.
Tail: The tail narrows down smoothly and shows off the same bright yellow and dark patterns as the rest of its body.
Speed: They are not very fast; they like to move slowly, which makes them easy to handle.
Banana Mojave Ball Python Size & Wight
Size: Adult Banana Mojave Ball Pythons usually grow to be about 3 to 5 feet long, although some can get a little bigger.
Weight: They typically weigh between 2 to 4 pounds, depending on their diet and health.
Behaviour and Temperament
They are usually calm and friendly, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced snake owners.
They can be very gentle and often enjoy being handled.
When they are young, they might be a bit shy, but they usually become more comfortable with their owners over time.
Lifespan
With good care, Banana Mojave Ball Python morph can live for 20 to 30 years, so they are long-term pets.
Banana Mojave Ball Python Cost
Adults: Adult Banana Mojave Ball Pythons usually cost between $300 and $600, depending on their quality and background.
Hatchlings: Hatchlings are cheaper, typically ranging from $150 to $300, making them great for first-time snake owners.
Juveniles: Juveniles generally cost about $200 to $400.
Best Places to Buy: The best places to buy this morph are from trusted breeders and websites like MorphMarket. These sources provide healthy snakes and information about their care and lineage.
Banana Mojave Ball Python Breeding & Reproduction
Here we provide a step-by-step guide to breeding Mojave banana ball python:
Start with healthy breeding pairs of Banana Mojave Ball Pythons, ensuring they are at least 2-3 years old for optimal breeding success.
Create a comfortable breeding setup with ideal temperatures (warm side: 88-92°F, cool side: 75-80°F) to stimulate breeding behaviour.
Introduce the male to the female after she has fed well, watching their interactions to gauge interest and readiness.
Keep an eye out for the magical moment of locking, where the male and female connect, signalling successful mating.
After mating, pamper the female with a nutritious diet to support her during the crucial egg development phase.
Expect the female to lay her beautiful eggs about 30-40 days later; provide a cozy lay box with a moist substrate for her comfort.
Gently collect the eggs and place them in a carefully monitored incubator set to 88-90°F, ensuring high humidity for healthy embryos.
Let the eggs incubate for 55-70 days, keeping the environment stable while giving them the quiet they need to develop.
As the eggs begin to crack open, resist the urge to rush; allow the hatchlings to fully emerge and gather their strength before handling.
Once the hatchlings are ready, provide them with individual enclosures that offer warmth, humidity, and plenty of hiding spots to thrive in their new world.
Banana Mojave Ball Python Care Sheet
1.Housing Requirements
Size and Type of Enclosure: A glass terrarium or a secure plastic tub is ideal. For an adult Banana Mojave, a 40-gallon tank or larger is recommended to provide enough space for movement.
Substrate Options: Use aspen bedding, coconut husk, or paper towels for easy maintenance and comfort.
Hiding Spots and Enrichment Items: Include at least two hiding spots—one on the warm side and one on the cool side.
Add logs, rocks, and artificial plants to create a stimulating environment.
2. Temperature and Humidity
Optimal Temperature Range: The basking area should be between 88-92°F, while the cool side should be around 75-80°F, allowing your snake to thermoregulate effectively.
Heating Methods: Use heat mats or lamps to maintain the temperature, and consider using a thermostat to regulate the heat properly.
Humidity Levels: Aim for humidity levels of 40-60%. You can maintain this by misting the enclosure and using a water bowl that allows for evaporation.
3. Diet and Feeding
Recommended Diet: Feed your Banana Mojave a diet of frozen/thawed mice or rats, depending on their size. Hatchlings can start with appropriately sized pinky or fuzzy mice.
Feeding Schedule: Feed juveniles once every 5-7 days and adults every 10-14 days. Adjust the amount based on your snake’s size and appetite.
Always provide a clean water bowl. Fresh water should be available at all times, and the bowl should be changed regularly.
4.Handling and Interaction
Always support your snake’s body and avoid grabbing them from above to reduce stress.
Tips for Acclimating: Allow your Banana Mojave to get used to your presence. Gradually introduce handling sessions, starting with short durations.
Signs of Stress to Watch For: Signs include hissing, rapid movement, or attempting to escape. If your snake shows these signs, give them some space.
5. Health and Veterinary Care
Common Health Issues: Watch for respiratory infections, mites, and shedding problems. Signs of illness can include lethargy, lack of appetite, or abnormal behavior.
Importance of Regular Vet Check-Ups: Schedule yearly check-ups with a reptile vet to ensure your snake is healthy.
Recommended Vaccinations: Generally, ball pythons do not require vaccinations, but regular health assessments are essential.
6. Shedding and Maintenance
They typically shed every 4-6 weeks. During this time, their eyes may turn blue, and they may become less active.
Tips for Assisting with Shedding: Maintain proper humidity levels and provide hides to help facilitate the shedding process.
Cleaning the Enclosure: Regularly clean the enclosure by removing waste and soiled substrate.
Perform a deep clean every few weeks using a reptile-safe disinfectant to ensure a hygienic environment.
Conclusion
The Banana Mojave Ball Python is a visually striking morph that enchants with its vibrant colors and unique patterns.
Its friendly temperament and manageable care requirements make it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced snake enthusiasts.
With its genetic potential for exciting breeding combinations, the Banana Mojave not only adds beauty to any collection but also offers a rewarding experience for reptile lovers.
