This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.
Discover the fascinating world of axanthic ball python morphs and learn essential care tips to ensure their well-being.
These unique snakes exhibit a genetic mutation that results in reduced pigmentation, creating striking patterns and colors. From understanding their origin to different types available, you’ll gain insights into the diverse world of axanthic ball pythons.
Explore the pros and cons of owning one, find out where to buy them, and even delve into breeding possibilities.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What is an Axanthic Ball Python?
- Where Do Axanthic Ball Pythons Come From?
- What Are the Different Types of Axanthic Ball Pythons?
- How Much Does an Axanthic Ball Python Cost?
- How Do I Care for an Axanthic Ball Python?
- What Are the Pros and Cons of Owning an Axanthic Ball Python?
- Where Can I Buy an Axanthic Ball Python?
- What Are the Risks of Owning an Axanthic Ball Python?
- How Do I Breed Axanthic Ball Pythons?
- What is the Future of Axanthic Ball Pythons?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are there any health concerns or specific risks associated with owning an Axanthic Ball Python?
- Can Axanthic Ball Pythons be bred with other ball python morphs to create unique combinations?
- Are there any specific care requirements or considerations for housing and maintaining the temperature and humidity levels for Axanthic Ball Pythons?
- What are the primary distinguishing characteristics or visual traits of an Axanthic Ball Python compared to other ball python morphs?
- Is there a significant difference in the price range of Axanthic Ball Pythons depending on their specific lineage or genetic traits?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Axanthic ball pythons lack yellow pigmentation, resulting in a predominantly gray, white, silver, black, and brown coloration.
- They are native to sub-Saharan African countries such as Ghana, Senegal, Nigeria, and Cameroon.
- The axanthic morph has become popular among reptile breeders and enthusiasts alike because of its striking visual appeal.
- These snakes can now be readily purchased from numerous reptile breeders at an average price range between $200 to $400 per snake depending on various factors including lineage and quality.
What is an Axanthic Ball Python?
An Axanthic Ball Python is a unique morph of the ball python species that lacks yellow pigmentation, resulting in a predominantly gray, silver, white, black and brown coloration. This lack of yellow pigmentation gives the axanthic ball python its distinct appearance.
When they’re hatchlings and juveniles, they tend to have a more greyish coloration. However, as they mature into adults, their colors shift towards shades of brown.
Native to sub-Saharan African countries such as Ghana,
Senegal,Nigeria,and Cameroon , these pythons can occur naturally in the wild but are extremely rare sightings due to their distinctive coloring.
The axanthic morph has become popular among reptile breeders and enthusiasts alike because of its striking visual appeal. These snakes can now be readily purchased from numerous reptile breeders at an average price range between $200 to $400 per snake depending on various factors including lineage and quality.
Understanding what makes an axanthic ball python unique allows you to appreciate this captivating morph even more fully.
Where Do Axanthic Ball Pythons Come From?
Axanthic ball pythons come from a combination of the axanthic and pied morphs. These snakes are native to Sub-Saharan Africa, specifically countries like Ghana, Senegal, Nigeria, and Cameroon.
In their native range, they occur naturally in the wild but are very rare. However, thanks to reptile breeders who’ve successfully bred them in captivity for many years now, axanthic ball pythons are readily available in the captive population.
Here is some information about where axanthic ball pythons come from:
- Native Range: Axanthic ball pythons originate from Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Wild Population: They can be found naturally occurring in their native range but are extremely rare.
- Captive Population: Due to successful breeding efforts by reptile breeders worldwide since the early 1990s onwards , these snakes can now be easily purchased as pets with prices ranging from $200 to $400 on average.
Overall Availability:
- Very Rare (in the wild)
- Readily Available (in captivity)
Price Range:
- $200-$400
Combination Morphs:
- More Costly
What Are the Different Types of Axanthic Ball Pythons?
Besides the standard axanthic morph, there are also a number of other axanthic ball python morphs available.
One such morph is the het red axanthic, which is a co-dominant morph that looks similar to cinnamon.
Another type of axanthic ball python is HRA (hidden recessive allele), which is a subtle and less distinct morph compared to others like pastels. However, HRA can be priced similarly to pastels due to its allelic relationship with cinnamon/black pastel, black pastel, ghost pinstripe snake spider combinations.
These different types of axanthics offer unique variations in appearance and genetic makeup for reptile enthusiasts looking for something special in their collection. Each one has its own characteristics and traits that make them stand out among other ball pythons.
Whether you’re interested in breeding or simply want an eye-catching pet snake, exploring these various types of Axanithc Ball Pythons can provide you with plenty of options to choose from based on your preferences and budget.
How Much Does an Axanthic Ball Python Cost?
If you’re considering adding an Axanthic Ball Python to your collection, you may be wondering about the cost. The price range for these snakes can vary depending on factors such as rarity, availability, and morph combos.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when it comes to the cost of an Axanthic Ball Python:
- Rarity: Axanthic Ball Pythons are considered rare in both their natural occurrence and captive breeding.
- Price Range: On average, you can expect to pay around $200 to $400 for a regular single gene axanthic ball python.
- Morph Combos: Combination morphs that include the axanthic gene tend to be more expensive due to their unique traits.
- Availability & Breeders: These pythons can now be readily purchased from various reptile breeders who specialize in ball python morphs.
It’s important to note that prices may vary among different breeders based on quality and demand. Additionally, certain factors like age, size, gender,and lineage might also influence the final price tag of an Axantic Ball Python.
Make sure you do thorough research before making a purchase decision so that you get not only what fits within your budget but also ensures good care for this beautiful snake species.
How Do I Care for an Axanthic Ball Python?
Now that you know how much an axanthic ball python costs, it’s time to learn how to care for one. Here are a few tips:
Enclosure:
- Axanthic ball pythons need a 40-gallon breeder tank or larger.
- The enclosure should have a warm side and a cool side, with a temperature gradient of 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit on the warm side and 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit on the cool side.
Humidity:
- Axanthic ball pythons need a humidity level of 50-60%.
- You can maintain this humidity by misting the enclosure regularly and providing a water bowl.
Feeding:
- Axanthic ball pythons should be fed a diet of live mice or rats.
- The size of the prey item should be based on the size of the snake.
Handling:
- Axanthic ball pythons can be shy, so it’s important to handle them gently and slowly.
- Start by handling your snake for short periods of time and gradually increase the length of time as your snake becomes more comfortable with you.
Here are some additional care tips for axanthic ball pythons:
- Provide a substrate such as aspen shavings or paper towels.
- Keep the enclosure clean and free of debris.
- Provide a hiding spot for your snake.
- Monitor your snake’s weight and health regularly.
By following these tips, you can help your axanthic ball python live a long and healthy life.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Owning an Axanthic Ball Python?
Pros:
- They’re beautiful and unique snakes.
- They’re docile and easy to care for.
- They’re relatively inexpensive compared to other ball python morphs.
- They’re captive bred, so you don’t have to worry about them being caught in the wild.
Cons:
- They can be difficult to find.
- They may require specialized care.
- They may not be suitable for everyone.
Overall, axanthic ball pythons make great pets for experienced reptile keepers.
Where Can I Buy an Axanthic Ball Python?
When looking to add an Axanthic Ball Python to your collection, you can find them available for purchase from reputable reptile breeders.
- Local Reptile Expos:
- These events bring together a variety of reptile enthusiasts and vendors in one place.
- You may have the opportunity to see different morphs in person and talk directly with breeders.
- MorphMarket:
- This online platform connects buyers and sellers of various reptiles, including Axanthic Ball Pythons.
- It allows you to browse through listings, compare prices, and contact breeders directly.
- Facebook Groups:
- There are several dedicated groups on Facebook where snake hobbyists share information about upcoming clutches or available snakes for sale.
- Joining these groups can provide access to exclusive deals.
It is important when purchasing any ball python morph that you do thorough research on the breeder’s reputation and ensure they adhere to ethical breeding practices. Additionally, be aware of common health issues associated with ball pythons such as respiratory infections or mites.
Remember that owning an axanthic ball python requires commitment in terms of time, space requirements (40-gallon tank), proper temperature (80-85 degrees Fahrenheit), humidity levels (50-60%), appropriate feeding schedule (live mice or rats), regular veterinary check-ups,and continuous learning about their unique care needs
What Are the Risks of Owning an Axanthic Ball Python?
After you’ve found a reputable breeder and purchased your axanthic ball python, there are still some risks to be aware of.
- Expensive
- Do your research and make sure you’re getting a fair price.
- Rare
- Axanthic ball pythons are rare, so it can be difficult to find one for sale.
- Combination morphs
- Axanthic ball pythons are often combined with other morphs, which can increase the price.
- Docile
- Axanthic ball pythons are docile snakes, but they can still bite if they’re provoked.
- Timid
- Axanthic ball pythons are timid snakes, so they may not be the best choice for first-time snake owners.
- Appearance
- Axanthic ball pythons lack yellow pigmentation, which can make them look dull or sickly.
- IUCN Red List
- Axanthic ball pythons are listed as near threatened by the IUCN Red List, which means they could become endangered in the future.
- Patterning
- Axanthic ball pythons can have reduced patterning, which can make them difficult to identify.
- Scaleless
- Some axanthic ball pythons are scaleless, which can make them more susceptible to injury.
- Wild
- Axanthic ball pythons can occur naturally in the wild, but they’re very rare.
How Do I Breed Axanthic Ball Pythons?
While there are some risks associated with owning an axanthic ball python, breeding them is relatively straightforward.
Here are the steps involved in breeding axanthic ball pythons:
- Choose two healthy axanthic ball pythons.
- Set up a breeding enclosure.
- Provide the proper temperature and humidity conditions.
- Allow the snakes to mate.
- Collect the eggs and incubate them at 90-92 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Hatch the eggs and care for the hatchlings.
Axanthic ball pythons typically reach sexual maturity at around 2 years old. The gestation period is around 50 days. Hatchlings are typically 6-8 inches long and have a slow growth rate. They typically reach adult size at around 3-4 years old.
What is the Future of Axanthic Ball Pythons?
The future of axanthic ball pythons is bright, as they’re one of the most popular morphs in the world.
Demand for axanthic ball pythons is high, and supply is limited, which has led to increased prices.
However, captive breeding programs are working to increase the supply of axanthic ball pythons, which will help to keep prices stable.
| Morph | Demand | Supply | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Axanthic | High | Limited | High |
| Pastel | High | High | Moderate |
| Clown | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Champagne | High | Low | High |
| Piebald | High | Low | Very High |
| Caramel Albino | High | Very Low | Extremely High |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there any health concerns or specific risks associated with owning an Axanthic Ball Python?
As with any pet snake, there are some health concerns and risks associated with owning an Axanthic Ball Python. However, these snakes are generally healthy and hardy, and with proper care, you can enjoy a long and happy relationship with your Axanthic Ball Python.
Can Axanthic Ball Pythons be bred with other ball python morphs to create unique combinations?
Yes, Axanthic Ball Pythons can be bred with other ball python morphs to create unique combinations.
Over 3000 ball python morphs have been developed since the early 1990s, and the axanthic morph remains one of the most accessible and popular.
Are there any specific care requirements or considerations for housing and maintaining the temperature and humidity levels for Axanthic Ball Pythons?
Axanthic Ball Pythons require the same care as any other Ball Python, with the exception that they may need a slightly higher humidity level.
What are the primary distinguishing characteristics or visual traits of an Axanthic Ball Python compared to other ball python morphs?
You’ll find that axanthic ball pythons lack yellow pigmentation, resulting in a mostly gray, white, silver, black, and brown snake.
Is there a significant difference in the price range of Axanthic Ball Pythons depending on their specific lineage or genetic traits?
The price range of Axanthic Ball Pythons can vary significantly depending on their specific lineage or genetic traits.
Conclusion
Axanthic ball python morphs are a fascinating and beautiful addition to any reptile collection. By understanding their unique needs, you can provide them with the best possible care and enjoy their company for many years to come.
Axanthic ball pythons are a type of ball python that is characterized by its lack of melanin. This means that they have a completely white or yellow body with no black or brown markings. Axanthic ball pythons are often considered to be some of the most beautiful and striking snakes in the world.
However, it is important to note that axanthic ball pythons do have some unique needs that must be met in order to ensure their health and well-being. For example, axanthic ball pythons are more susceptible to sunburn than other types of ball pythons.
This means that they should be kept in a cool, shaded environment and should not be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.
Additionally, axanthic ball pythons are more likely to develop vitamin A deficiency than other types of ball pythons. This is because they do not produce as much vitamin A in their own bodies. As a result, it is important to make sure that axanthic ball pythons are fed a diet that is rich in vitamin A.
By understanding the unique needs of axanthic ball pythons, you can provide them with the best possible care and enjoy their company for many years to come.
