Imagine a snake that embodies the beauty of a twilight sky, filled with deep hues and intricate patterns.
Meet the Mystic Potion Ball Python, a captivating morph that captivates the heart of every snake lover!
What makes this morph so unique, and how can you provide the perfect home for such a magical creature?
Dive into the enchanting world of the Mystic Potion and find out why it deserves a place in your heart and collection!
Mystic Potion Ball Python History & Genetics
The Mystic Potion Royal Python is a stunning creation that captures the fascination of reptile enthusiasts everywhere.
This morph emerged from the combination of two intriguing genes: the Mystic gene and the Pastel gene.
The Mystic gene first appeared in the early 2000s, quickly gaining popularity for its mesmerizing dark tones and reduced patterns.
By blending it with the Pastel gene, breeders unlocked a vibrant array of colors, giving birth to the Mystic Potion—a beautiful mix of deep purples and soft pastels that look like a living work of art.
The genetic synergy not only enhances its visual appeal but also brings forth unique variations in each snake, making every Mystic Potion a one-of-a-kind masterpiece
Mystic Potion Ball Python Traits
Appearance
- Body Color: The Mystic Potion showcases a striking blend of deep purples, browns, and subtle pastels, creating an eye-catching look.
- Shape: They have a robust, muscular body typical of ball pythons, which helps them in their natural habitat.
- Eyes: Their eyes are often dark and captivating, enhancing their overall mystique.
- Belly: The belly is usually lighter, with subtle patterning that adds to its charm.
- Head Shape: The Mystic Potion has a slightly wider head, which gives it a more robust appearance.
- Tail: The tail is thick and tapering, characteristic of the species, making it easy to identify.
Mystic Potion Size & Weight
- Size: Adult Mystic Potion Ball Pythons typically range from 3 to 5 feet in length.
- Weight: They usually weigh between 2 to 5 pounds, depending on their diet and age.
Behaviour and Temperament:
- These Ball Pythons are known for their calm and gentle nature.
- They rarely bite and are often friendly, making them great pets for beginners and experienced keepers alike.
- They may be shy at first but usually become accustomed to handling it over time.
Mystic Potion Lifespan
With proper care, they can live for 20 to 30 years, making them long-term companions.
Mystic Potion Ball Python Cost
- Adults: Prices can range from $200 to $600, depending on the breeder and specific traits.
- Hatchlings: They typically cost between $100 and $300, with factors like genetics and colour influencing the price.
- Juveniles: These often range from $150 to $400.
- Where to Buy: The best places to buy a Mystic Potion Ball Python are reputable breeders or specialized reptile shops, where you can ensure the snake is healthy cared for.
Mystic Potion Ball Python Breeding & Reproduction
1. Breeding Readiness:
- Mystic Potion Ball Pythons reach sexual maturity between 1.5 to 3 years of age.
- Female pythons may grow larger and should ideally weigh at least 1,500 grams before breeding to ensure health and successful reproduction.
2. Breeding Season:
- The breeding season typically occurs in the fall or winter, mimicking their natural habitat’s seasonal changes.
- Breeders often cool down their snakes to simulate winter conditions, which can trigger breeding behaviour.
3. Mating Ritual:
- During the mating season, males will display courtship behaviors, including rubbing their bodies against the female and searching for her pheromones.
- Mating can last several hours, with the male copulating multiple times to ensure fertilization.
4. Egg Laying:
- After successful mating, females will lay clutches of 4 to 10 eggs, usually in late spring or early summer.
- The eggs are often laid in a warm, humid area of the enclosure to ensure proper incubation.
5. Incubation:
- Eggs should be incubated at a temperature of about 88-90°F (31-32°C) with high humidity levels (around 80%).
- The incubation period lasts approximately 55 to 60 days, after which the hatchlings will emerge.
6. Hatchling Care:
- Once hatched, Mystic Potion Ball Python hatchlings are typically around 10 to 15 inches long.
- It’s crucial to provide them with a safe, warm, and moist environment to thrive in their early days.
7. Unique Traits:
- Breeding Mystic Potions can lead to exciting variations and unique patterns, making each clutch special.
- Breeders often look for specific traits to enhance the morph’s vibrant colors and patterns.
Famous Mystic Potion Morph Combos
- Mystic Potion x Banana:
- The Banana Mystic Potion Ball Python enhances the bright colors of the Banana gene while maintaining the unique patterns of the Mystic Potion. The result is a vibrant and eye-catching snake with a striking appearance.
- Mystic Potion x Pastel:
- Pairing Mystic Potion with Pastel amplifies the brightness and contrast of the colors.
- This combo often showcases beautiful yellows and light patterns that are highly sought after.
- Mystic Potion x Champagne:
- This mix produces a snake with a unique color palette that combines the richness of the Mystic with the lighter, creamy tones of the Champagne morph.
- The resulting snake often has intriguing patterns and colors.
- Mystic Potion x Enchi:
- The Enchi gene can lighten the overall appearance and create more defined patterns.
- This combination often results in a beautifully patterned snake with a captivating blend of colours.
- Mystic Potion x Fire:
- When paired with the Fire gene, this combo can produce incredibly bright and clean patterns, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the Mystic Potion.
- Mystic Potion x Ghost:
- This combination can produce snakes with subtle pastel colors and unique patterns, resulting in a soft and attractive appearance.
- The Ghost gene adds a beautiful, muted look that many collectors appreciate.
- Mystic Potion x Mojave:
- The Mojave gene can create fascinating color contrasts and patterns, resulting in a striking and visually appealing snake with a blend of deep colors.
Mystic Potion Ball Python Care Sheet
1. Housing & Substrate
- Hatchlings: A 20-gallon tank is sufficient for hatchlings and small juveniles.
- Juveniles: As they grow, move them to a 30-gallon tank for more space.
- Adults: A fully grown Mystic Potion Ball Python requires at least a 40-gallon enclosure to accommodate their size and allow natural movement.
- Substrate:
- Aspen Bedding: A popular choice due to its ability to hold burrows and easy maintenance.
- Cypress Mulch: Great for retaining moisture, which helps with maintaining ideal humidity levels.
- Paper Towels/Newspaper: Affordable and easy to change, but lacks the natural aesthetic.
- Avoid: Do not use pine or cedar bedding, as they release oils that can be harmful to snakes.
2. Enclosure Setup & Environment
- Hides: Provide two hides in the enclosure—one on the warm side and one on the cool side. This helps the Mystic Potion Ball Python feel safe and secure, reducing stress.
- Climbing: While they are not known to climb much, adding branches or other climbing decor can provide mental stimulation and enhance their environment.
- Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of 50-60%. To do this, mist the enclosure lightly or place a humidity box inside to help the snake during shedding periods.
- Temperature:
- Warm Side (Basking Spot): Ensure the temperature is between 88-92°F for the basking area to aid digestion and metabolism.
- Cool Side: Keep the cool side around 75-80°F to allow for temperature regulation.
- Use thermostats and heat sources to maintain a consistent temperature gradient.
- Lighting: Mystic Potion Ball Pythons do not require UVB lighting. A heat source like a ceramic heat emitter or heat lamp will suffice to maintain their body temperature.
3. Feeding
- Diet: Mystic Potion Ball Pythons primarily eat appropriately sized mice or rats, depending on their age and size.
- Feeding Schedule:
- Hatchlings/Juveniles: Feed every 5-7 days.
- Adults: Feed every 10-14 days as they require larger meals but less frequent feeding.
- Live vs. Frozen-Thawed:
- Frozen-Thawed: Safer and more convenient as it eliminates the risk of injury from live prey.
- Live Prey: Can be used, but there is a risk of the prey biting or injuring the snake. Always supervise live feedings.
4. Water
- Water Bowl: Provide a water bowl that is large enough for the snake to soak in if desired. The bowl should be shallow enough to avoid accidental drowning, but big enough for the snake to access easily.
- Hydration: Ensure the water is kept fresh and clean at all times. Change the water daily to prevent contamination and bacteria buildup.
5. Handling
- Frequency: Young Mystic Potion Ball Pythons can be handled every few days once they are accustomed to their environment. Adults can be handled 1-2 times a week.
- Gentle Handling: Always support the snake’s body and avoid sudden movements. Handle gently to avoid causing stress or discomfort.
6. Shedding
- Shedding Signs: When your Mystic Potion Ball Python is about to shed, their eyes will become cloudy or blue, and their skin will appear dull.
- Humidity During Shed: Increase the humidity slightly (up to 65-70%) during shedding periods to aid in smooth shedding.
- Problems with Shedding: If any skin remains after shedding (known as a “stuck shed”), soak the snake in lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes and gently assist in removing the remaining skin.
7. Health & Common Issues
- Signs of Illness: Be on the lookout for symptoms like wheezing, mouth gaping, or mucus, which could indicate a respiratory infection. Other concerns include mouth rot (inflammation of the mouth), mites (small parasites on the snake’s body), or scale issues.
- Veterinary Care: Regular checkups with a reptile vet are important, especially if any signs of illness are noticed. Early intervention can prevent more serious health issues.
8. Cleaning & Maintenance
- Spot Cleaning: Remove waste or uneaten food daily to keep the enclosure clean.
- Deep Cleaning: Fully clean the enclosure and replace the substrate about once a month. Clean the decor and water bowl with reptile-safe disinfectants to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Safe Cleaning Products: Use products specifically made for reptile enclosures, as regular household cleaners can contain chemicals harmful to your snake.
Conclusion
The Mystic Potion Ball Python stands out with its enchanting blend of colors and patterns, captivating the hearts of snake enthusiasts.
Its calm demeanor and unique traits make it an ideal pet for both beginners and seasoned keepers.
With exciting breeding possibilities that can lead to stunning morph combinations, the Mystic Potion is truly a remarkable addition to any reptile collection.
