Alain Grant Did you know that the Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python is one of the rarest and most sought-after reptiles in the pet trade? With their stunning white skin and mesmerizing blue irises, it’s no wonder that enthusiasts are willing to pay top dollar to add them to their collection.
But owning such a unique and delicate creature requires more than just a hefty price tag. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python care, covering everything from their habitat and feeding needs to breeding and health concerns.
As a responsible herpetologist or herpetoculturist, it’s crucial to understand the requirements of this beloved reptile. With a lifespan of up to 30 years, proper care is essential to ensure they live a long and healthy life.
From creating the perfect environment to providing a balanced diet, every aspect of their care must be carefully considered. So, whether you’re a seasoned reptile owner or considering adding a Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python to your collection, read on to learn everything you need to know about their care and maintenance.
Key Takeaways
- Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons are rare and prized reptiles with white skin and icy blue irises, making them unique and desirable pets for herpetoculturists.
- They are difficult to produce and require the genes of two different morphs bred over three generations, making them expensive and hard to find.
- They have a long lifespan of 20 to 30 years and require specific care, such as a 40-gallon tank with a basking area of 88-92°F and constant humidity of 50-60%.
- Regular cleaning and hand washing are necessary to prevent the spread of diseases like salmonella, which can be contracted from reptiles.
Background and Characteristics
You already know that the Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python is a rare and prized reptile with white skin and blue irises. But did you know that they’re difficult to produce and are considered designer pythons, requiring the genes of two different morphs bred over three generations?
Breeding a true Blue Eyed Leucistic has a success rate of less than 25%, and it may take generations to achieve. This rarity has led to a high market demand, with these reptiles costing between $400 to $600.
The Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python has a long lifespan of 20 to 30 years and is subject to health issues associated with captivity. It’s important to note that similar morphs can be bought easily, but the demand for Blue Eyed Leucistic has grown due to its unique and beautiful appearance.
Herpetologists and herpetoculturists alike are fascinated by these reptiles, and their popularity shows no signs of slowing down.
Housing and Environment
To ensure the health and comfort of your Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python, it’s important to provide them with a suitable tank setup. The enclosure should be spacious, made of PVC, plastic, or glass, and have a secure top.
It’s important to provide your python with a basking area and hiding places as well. Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial for their health. The tank should have a constant humidity level of 50-60%, which can be achieved through misting or using a humidifier.
To keep the temperature regulated, provide a basking area with a temperature of 88-92°F during the day and a cooler area for them to retreat to. Remember not to cohabitate them, as they prefer to be solitary creatures.
By providing a suitable environment, your Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python can thrive in captivity.
Breeding and Health Concerns
Breeding Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons can be challenging due to the low success rates. K. Cramer’s hatch of only 3 pythons is a testament to this. It takes patience and dedication to produce this unique morph, which requires the genes of two different morphs bred over three generations. The breeding success rate is less than 25%, and it may take generations to achieve a true Blue Eyed Leucistic python.
However, for herpetoculturists who are willing to put in the effort, the reward is a beautiful and rare reptile that is highly valued in the pet trade.
When breeding Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons, it is important to keep in mind the health concerns associated with captivity. Regular cleaning and hand washing are necessary to prevent the spread of diseases like salmonella. Additionally, it is essential to provide a suitable environment for the pythons to thrive in, including a secure enclosure made of PVC, plastic, or glass with a basking area and hiding places.
Providing proper nutrition and monitoring the python’s health is also crucial. With proper care and attention, Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons can live a long and healthy life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons be fed?
Feed your Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python every 7-10 days, with appropriately sized prey based on their size and age. They require a balanced diet of rodents and birds to meet their nutritional requirements.
Can Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons be kept with other species of reptiles or amphibians?
You can’t mix and match your Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python with other reptiles or amphibians. Their compatibility concerns are high, and it’s not recommended. Housing options should be limited to PVC, plastic, or glass with a secure top.
What is the average size of a fully grown Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python?
A fully grown Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python can reach an average size of 3 to 5 feet long. Breeding requirements and morphological variations can affect their size, with genetic variations leading to smaller or larger specimens.
Are there any specific toys or enrichment items that are recommended for Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons?
Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons don’t need toys or enrichment items, but they enjoy climbing branches and exploring their environment. However, it’s important to provide safe options.
How can I tell if my Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python is male or female?
To determine the sex of your Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python, look for hemipenal bulges near the tail. Males have longer and thicker tails, while females have shorter and thinner tails. Breeding possibilities depend on finding a compatible mate.
Conclusion
Congratulations on choosing to care for the rare and beautiful Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python! With its striking white skin and mesmerizing blue irises, this designer python is a true gem of the reptile world.
Proper care is crucial for this delicate creature, and this care sheet has provided you with a thorough overview of its habitat, feeding, and maintenance needs. You now know that providing a spacious enclosure with proper temperature and humidity levels is essential for its health and well-being.
Additionally, offering a balanced diet of appropriately sized prey items and regular health check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in exotic animal care will ensure a long and happy life for your new pet.
Remember, owning a Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python is a long-term commitment, as they can live up to 30 years in captivity. But with proper care and attention, you’ll have the pleasure of enjoying this rare and beautiful creature for many years to come.
So go ahead, take the leap, and welcome your new python into your home. You won’t regret it!
