Guide to Bumblebee Ball Python Genetics: Breeding, Morphs, & Pricing (2024)

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Have you ever wondered what the fuss is all about when it comes to bumblebee ball python genetics? These unique snakes are a combination of two different morphs: pastel and spider. They have an incredible range of colors, from yellow to black, with beautiful markings that make them stand out in any collection.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at how these unusual creatures are bred, their price point, and where you can find them for sale. We’ll also cover essential care tips on feeding baby bumblebees, as well as common controversies surrounding designer morphs like this one.

Get ready to learn everything there is to know about the amazing world of bumblebee ball pythons!

What is a Bumblebee Ball Python?

Bumblebee Ball Pythons are a visually striking and unique breed of python, thanks to the combination of pastel and spider genes they possess. Their background color is typically bright yellow from the pastel gene, while their distinctive stripe pattern comes from the spider gene.

A variety of morphs, such as Albino bumblebees, Bumblebee clowns, and Pied bumblebees, have been developed by combining different combinations of these two genes.

Appearance

You’ll be mesmerized by the vibrant yellow background color contrasted with a black stripe pattern on this beautiful snake. Bumblebee Ball Pythons, which combine pastel and spider genes, have a 25% chance of appearing when breeding pastel to spider.

Wobble severity varies from mild to severe due to the spider gene, causing welfare concerns for some breeders.

Their calm disposition makes them tolerant of gentle handling; however, they may become defensive as young snakes.

Morphs

Experience a rainbow of colors with the many morphs of Bumblebee Ball Pythons! The albino, clown, pied, and axanthic varieties all boast unique patterns that will dazzle you – even if neurological issues from the spider gene are a concern.

From an Albino bumblebee’s lighter yellow and white pattern to a Pied’s large white patches amongst regular coloring, there is something for everyone. A Clown has a reduced pattern but a darker spine stripe while Axanthic removes yellow for a black/white effect.

Breeding tips include a male over 700g+1yr old and a female 1200g+3yrs. Lower the temperature during the brumation period, then pair them after reintroducing them post-brumation. Feeding babies starts with a hopper mouse and progresses to adult-size meals, along with adequate heat and space.

Genetics

Understanding the distinctive genetics of these majestic creatures is key to appreciating their unique beauty. Bumblebee Ball Pythons are a combination of codominant pastel and spider genes, creating a bright yellow background color with black stripe patterning.

Wobble Inheritance is permanently linked to the spider gene, varying in severity from individual to individual and even between offspring of parents without wobble. This makes it controversial for breeding due to welfare issues. Disposition can be defensive when young, but they usually become docile with regular gentle handling.

Proper husbandry tips include an escape-proof enclosure, heat pad, and thermometer, plus humidity around 60-70%.

Health risks include respiratory infections or mites if not cared for correctly. Cost factors range from $130 to $225 per standard bumblebee, up into thousands depending on extra traits!

How to Breed a Bumblebee Ball Python

Breeding bumblebee ball pythons requires careful consideration of several factors. The male and female snakes must be at least one year and three years old, respectively, with the male weighing over 700 grams.

During the breeding season, it is important to lower the temperature to the mid-70s Fahrenheit for brumation before reintroducing the pair for mating purposes. Following this process, females will lay eggs 1-2 months after breeding, which should then be incubated properly until hatching occurs 55-65 days later.

Breeding Requirements

To breed a bumblebee, it’s important to meet certain requirements for both the male and female. Careful selection of healthy adults with no spider wobble is necessary. Genetic testing can be used to determine whether an animal carries the desired genes or not.

Temperature control during brumation should also be considered when breeding ball pythons, as well as providing an appropriate diet beforehand so they reach sexual maturity at 2-3 years old. Proper enclosure setup must include adequate heat, humidity between 60-70%, hides, and dark brown substrate.

This helps them transition into mating mode more quickly once reintroduced after the brumation period has ended.

Lastly, keep in mind that some individuals may carry neurological impairment due to their spider gene, which manifests itself through green eyes or head wobble known as ‘spider wobble.

Egg Laying and Hatching

Once mating is complete, female bumblebees can lay eggs 1-2 months later. Incubation at the proper temperature for 55-65 days is essential before hatching. Genetic diversity and cage hygiene must be considered when breeding ball pythons, as well as shedding cycles to promote healthy baby bumblebees with a higher chance of hatching than normal ball pythons.

To produce strong, vibrant baby balls that will thrive in captivity requires more than just luck – it needs dedicated care and attention during egg-laying stages through adulthood to ensure their long-term health and well-being.

How Much Do Bumblebee Ball Pythons Cost?

If you’re considering buying a Bumblebee Ball Python, it’s important to understand the cost variations. Standard Bumblebees usually range from $130 – $200, while those carrying recessive genes have prices in the range of $200-$225.

If you are looking for a designer morph with multiple extra traits, expect to pay over $10,000 or more depending on its rarity and appearance.

Standard Bumblebee

You won’t believe the stunning beauty of a standard bumblebee ball python – its bright yellow background color and classic dark bumblebee pattern will take your breath away!

Mating is easy to achieve with this morph, though eating habits are important for keeping them healthy.

Cost-wise, expect to pay between $130-$200 for a normal one; however, if carrying recessive genes such as axanthic or producing other morphs like albino or pied ones, then you could be looking at over $10,000!

It’s also worth noting that although many snakes don’t show signs of wobble due to the spider gene, it’s still possible, so it may just come down to luck when buying these beauties.

Bumblebee With Recessive Gene

If you’re looking for a unique find, consider investing in a bumblebee with recessive genes – the price tag will reflect its rarity and beauty! Bumblebees with genes like axanthic or pied can cost $200-$225.

Their exotic looks come from the genetic lottery, but all inherit some risk of wobble. Still, morphs like bumblebee clown and albino bumblebee make them worthwhile for collectors who understand breeding and genetics.

Designer Bumblebees

For those looking for something extra special, designer bumblebees are a costly investment that can easily cost over $10,000. These unique combos of morphs and colors come from breeding traits like pastel and spider genes.

But it’s important to understand wobble inheritance too. Handle with care; their temperament may be docile or defensive depending on age. Consider health concerns as well: respiratory infections, mites, and obesity if not cared for properly.

Husbandry tips include an escape-proof enclosure with proper heat and humidity, and regular cage cleanings 1-2 times a month post-feeding day!

From albino to calico bumblebee ball python morphs, there are multiple ways to appreciate the beauty of these rare creatures!

Finding Bumblebee Ball Python Morphs for Sale

When it comes to Bumblebee Ball Pythons, there is a lot of controversy surrounding the spider gene that gives them their unique pattern. Despite this, they remain one of the most popular morphs due to their beautiful colors and various designer variations.

Spider Gene Controversy

The controversial spider gene in Bumblebee Ball Pythons often causes heartbreaking head wobble, leaving many snake owners feeling helpless and frustrated. The spider gene brings with it a host of challenges, from breeding welfare to neurological issues.

Humidity levels need to be monitored carefully, and cage cleaning must be done regularly. Overfeeding can quickly become an issue. There are several bumblebee ball python morphs that contain the spider morph, including pastel spiders.

Understanding different types of genes and their results is paramount when selecting your pet.

Popular Morphs

You’ll find plenty of bumblebee ball python morphs for sale despite the controversy over spider genetics. Popular morphs include pastel spiders, super pastels, killer bees, and more. Quality labels can help identify recessive traits in each individual snake’s genetics – an important factor for those interested in breeding.

Comparing normal specimens to these distinct colorations reveals how striking they are! To ensure proper care is given to bumblebees with neurological issues due to their spider gene, some breeders may enact regulations on sales or husbandry requirements before purchase.

Beautiful Colors

Admired for their vibrant yellow and bold black patterning, bumblebee ball pythons are a stunning sight. Their wild counterparts have the same size and shape but lack the right genes to produce different codominant traits like pastel, spider, and cinnamon that give them their unique stripy appearance.

Feeding habits should be taken into consideration as these snakes require larger meals than normal. Health issues such as respiratory infections or mites can arise if they are not properly cared for. Temperament-wise, they tend to be docile yet cautious when young, which improves with regular handling.

Brumation in winter is essential for breeding. All of this comes at a cost, so buyers must consider carefully before purchasing.

How to Feed a Baby Bumblebee Ball Python

When it comes to feeding your baby bumblebee ball python, you’ll want to start by offering one hopper mouse at each meal. After three to four successful feedings on hopper mice, you can then transition your snake to eating adult mice.

It’s important when feeding any baby python to provide adequate heat, humidity, and space for them to digest their meals properly. Though they are just hatchlings, these snakes are equipped to swallow adult mice as their correct meal size.

With the right husbandry, your baby bumblebee will thrive on this feeding routine.

Starting With Hopper Mouse

When it comes to feeding baby bumblebees, start with a hopper mouse – not a pinky – as they can actually eat adult mice.

Averagely, each egg will hatch up to 4-8 of these unique-looking snakes. They feature bright yellow background color from pastel and black stripe-shaped dorsal markings from the spider gene.

Feeding should be done on a weekly schedule. Ensure proper cage setup, such as temperature control and humidity levels around 60%-70%.

Avoid handling until 1-2 weeks after feeding due to genetic influence causing wobble in some individuals.

With all these tips in mind, plus regular gentle handling over time, you can ensure your Bumblebee Ball Python morphs thrive happily!

Transitioning to Adult Mouse

Once the baby bumblebees have had several hopper mouse meals, it’s time to transition them to adult mice.

• Start with a small adult mouse.
• Slowly increase the mouse size.
• Watch for proper swallowing.
• Skip meals if struggling.
• Be patient during the transition.

The key is gradual size increases while monitoring the snakes’ health and feeding response. With patience and care, the bumblebees will thrive on their new adult mouse diet.

Proper Heat and Space

Y’all gotta supply adequate heat and space when feeding those baby bumblebees if you want them to take those adult mice. Ensure the vivarium offers suitable floor space and vertical climbing opportunities.

Maintain ambient temperatures within the proper range and an adequate thermal gradient using quality heat sources. Provide appropriately sized hides and adequate humidity. With the right husbandry techniques, those bumblebee hatchlings will readily accept adult mouse meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)