Banana Spinner Ball Python: Care, Genetics, & Breeding Secrets Revealed

Marie curie

Looking for a ball python that blends beauty and uniqueness?

The Banana Spinner Ball Python is a stunning combination of vibrant colours and intricate patterns. Ever wondered what makes this morph stand out in the world of reptiles?

Is it the perfect pet for you? Let’s explore why this snake is such a fan favourite!

Banana Spinner Ball Python History & Genetics

The Spinner Banana Ball Python is an exciting combination of three morphs: Banana, Spider, and Pinstripe ball python.

The Banana gene, first discovered in the early 2000s, is known for its bright yellow and orange colours, giving the snake its vibrant look.

The Spider gene, around since the 1990s, adds a bold, web-like pattern.

While the Pinstripe gene, which has been bred since the early 2000s, creates thin, straight lines along the body.

In terms of genetics, the Banana gene is co-dominant, meaning even one Banana parent can produce visual Banana offspring.

The Spider gene is dominant, meaning its pattern will always appear if the gene is present. The Pinstripe gene is also dominant, giving the snake its thin, pinstriped markings.

Together, these three genes produce the Banana Spinner morph, a snake with stunning yellow colours, intricate patterns, and striking pinstripe lines.

It’s a highly sought-after and visually stunning ball python in the reptile world.

Banana Spinner Ball Python Characteristics

Banana Spinner Ball Python Appearance

 Body Color: They have a bright yellow base colour with beautiful orange and white highlights.

Shape: Its body is robust and muscular, typical of ball pythons, making it a strong and healthy snake.

Eyes: The eyes are usually dark and shiny, giving it an appealing look.

Head Shape: It has a broad, triangular head, a signature trait of ball pythons.

Tail: The tail is tapered and blends smoothly into the body, maintaining a sleek appearance.

Speed: These snakes are not particularly fast but can be agile when needed, especially when exploring their environment.

Banana Spinner Ball Python Size & Weight

  • Length: Adult Banana Spinner Ball Pythons typically grow to be between 3 to 5 feet long.
  • Weight: They generally weigh between 2 to 5 pounds, depending on their diet and health.
  • Hatchlings: Hatchlings are usually around 10 to 15 inches long and weigh about 50 to 100 grams.

Behaviour and Temperament

Known for their calm and docile nature, Banana Spinner Ball Pythons are easy to handle and make great pets.

They can be a bit shy at first but warm up quickly with regular handling and interaction.

Their curious nature makes them engaging pets for both beginners and experienced keepers.

Banana Spinner Royal Python Lifespan

In captivity, these snakes can live for 20 to 30 years with proper care, providing long-term companionship.

Spinner Banana Ball Python Cost

  • Adults: Prices typically range from $300 to $600.
  • Hatchlings: You can find hatchlings for around $150 to $300, making them a more affordable option.
  • Juveniles: Juveniles usually cost between $200 to $400.

Best Places to Buy

  • The best places to purchase a Banana Spinner Ball Python are reputable breeders and specialized reptile shops.
  • Websites like MorphMarket and local reptile expos are excellent options for finding healthy snakes.

Banana Spinner Ball Python Breeding & Reproduction

Banana Spinner Ball Pythons typically reach sexual maturity between 2 to 3 years of age. This is when they are ready to breed.

Breeding Process

  • The breeding season usually occurs in the cooler months, from late fall to early spring.
  • During this time, males become more active and seek out females.
  • When breeding, it’s essential to introduce a healthy male to a receptive female.
  • Watch for signs that the female is ready, such as increased appetite and interest in the male.
  • After successful mating, the female can lay eggs about 30 days later.
  • It’s crucial to ensure she has a proper diet and environment during this time.

Egg Laying & Incubation

The female Banana Spinner will lay between 4 to 10 eggs, depending on her size and health. She often coils around the eggs to keep them warm and protect them.

Eggs typically hatch after about 60 to 70 days of incubation. Maintain a consistent temperature and humidity in the incubation container to ensure healthy hatchlings.

Once the eggs hatch, the baby snakes will be around 10 to 15 inches long. They are independent and do not require parental care.

Banana Spinner Ball Python Care Sheet

1. Enclosure Setup

  • Tank Size: A 20-gallon tank is suitable for juveniles, but adults require at least a 40-gallon enclosure. Ensure there’s enough room for the snake to stretch and explore.
  • Type of Enclosure: Glass terrariums or plastic tubs both work. Glass offers visibility, while plastic retains heat and humidity better.
  • Substrate: Use aspen shavings, cypress mulch, or coconut husk for natural-looking bedding. Paper towels are ideal for easy cleaning, especially for young snakes.
  • Hides: Provide at least two hides—one on the warm side and one on the cool side. Ball pythons need hiding spots to feel secure.
  • Climbing Structures: Although Banana Spinner Ball Pythons aren’t arboreal, adding branches or ledges can provide enrichment and exercise.

2. Temperature Setup

Keep the warm side of the enclosure at 88-92°F, with a basking spot, and the cool side at 75-80°F.

  • Heating Equipment: Under-tank heaters or ceramic heat emitters are ideal for maintaining the temperature. A thermostat is crucial to avoid overheating.
  • Humidity: Maintain humidity between 50-60%. Increase it to 70% during shedding by misting the enclosure or placing a water dish near the heat source.
  • Lighting: UVB lighting is not required, but maintaining a consistent day/night cycle (12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness) is beneficial for the snake’s health.

3. Banana Spinner Ball Python Diet

Feed your Ball Python appropriately sized rodents, such as mice or rats. The prey should be no larger than the thickest part of the snake’s body.

  • Feeding Frequency: Juveniles should be fed every 5-7 days, while adults can be fed once every 10-14 days.
  • Feeding Tips: Frozen/thawed prey is safer than live prey, as live animals can injure the snake. Always defrost prey thoroughly and offer it using feeding tongs.
  • Water: Provide fresh, clean water at all times. Use a shallow dish that allows the snake to soak if desired, especially during shedding.

4. Handling

  • Handling Frequency: Handle your Banana Spinner Ball Python morph 1-2 times a week to maintain its comfort with human interaction. Avoid handling for 48 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation.
  • Handling Tips: Always support the snake’s body, especially its midsection. Move slowly and avoid sudden movements to keep the snake calm and stress-free.

5. Shedding

  • Signs of Shedding: The snake’s skin will appear dull, and its eyes may turn blue or cloudy a few days before shedding.
  • Shedding Assistance: To assist with shedding, ensure humidity is at least 70%. If your snake has trouble shedding, gently soak it in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.
  • Humidity During Shedding: Maintaining proper humidity levels is essential during shedding to prevent stuck sheds, which can lead to health problems like retained eye caps.

6. Health & Common Issues

  • Common Health Problems: Watch out for respiratory infections (wheezing, mucus), mites, scale rot (caused by poor humidity or substrate), and regurgitation.
  • Signs of Illness: Lack of appetite, frequent hiding, abnormal breathing, and discharge from the nose or mouth are signs your snake may be ill. Consult a reptile vet if these symptoms occur.
  • Veterinary Care: Annual vet check-ups are recommended. If your snake stops eating for a prolonged period or shows signs of illness, seek veterinary advice promptly.

7. Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Cleaning Frequency: Spot cleans the enclosure daily, removing waste and uneaten prey. Perform a deep clean, including changing the substrate, every 4-6 weeks.
  • Sanitizing the Enclosure: Use a reptile-safe disinfectant to clean the tank. Diluted bleach (rinse thoroughly) or vinegar-based cleaners work well for sanitizing hides, water bowls, and enclosures.
  • Maintaining Hygiene: Always wash your hands before and after handling the snake or cleaning the enclosure to prevent the spread of bacteria or parasites.

Conclusion

The Banana Spinner Ball Python is a breathtaking marvel of nature, combining vibrant colors and striking patterns that captivate every reptile enthusiast.

With its gentle temperament and unique charm, this morph not only enriches collections but also offers an exciting breeding journey filled with potential.

 Embrace the allure of the Banana Spinner and let its beauty inspire your passion for these incredible snakes!

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