Whether you’re just starting out with captive ball pythons or have already had one for a while, you probably wonder what they eat. You’re probably wondering if you can feed them certain types of foods. If so, you’ll want to keep a close eye on your pet.
Contents
Prey
Whether you’re new to keeping snakes or a seasoned snake keeper, you may have questions about the types of prey that ball pythons eat in captivity. Ball pythons are opportunistic ambush predators. In the wild, they prey on rodents and other small mammals. In captivity, they’ll eat a variety of prey, but rodents are their primary source of food.
The ideal type of prey for ball pythons is small to medium-sized frozen or thawed items. These prey items contain plenty of protein and calcium to keep the snake’s bones and muscles strong.
In addition to frozen prey, ball pythons can be fed live prey. Live prey can make a mess, and can pose a risk of infection. You should never feed a snake live food unless you’re willing to monitor and clean up after it.
Hamsters
Whether you have a ball python in captivity or you are considering getting one, you should know what is the right prey for it. Some snakes will prefer smaller prey, while others may need more hiding spaces.
Hamsters are an excellent choice for a ball python’s diet. They are a good source of protein and nutrients, and a good alternative to mice. However, it is important to keep in mind that hamsters are not as large as mice, so you may not be able to fill your ball python’s stomach.
You can also try other options, such as a rat or a chick. However, these options can be a little more expensive. So, it is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option before deciding.
Crickets
Choosing the right prey for your ball python can be a challenge. The right foods are high in protein, and low in fat. They also contain the proper nutrients to keep your pet healthy.
The first thing to consider when choosing a diet for your ball python is size. Larger pythons eat crickets, while smaller snakes eat birds. It is important to choose prey that is large enough for your snake to easily consume, but not so large that it will eat more than it can.
A ball python’s diet in captivity should be primarily based on small to medium sized frozen/thawed prey items. These are high in protein and calcium. It is important to make sure the prey is properly thawed.
It is important to note that many of the prey items you buy for your snake will need to be re-thawed before feeding. This will prevent the prey from becoming too moist.
Hamster pellets
Despite their picky eating habits, ball pythons can be fed a variety of prey items. However, it’s important to know what is and isn’t appropriate for your snake.
If you’re considering getting a ball python, you may want to ask your breeder about the types of food they feed their animals. This will ensure you’re getting the right type of food for your snake.
In the wild, ball pythons consume a variety of small mammals, including birds, rodents, and insects. In captivity, ball pythons primarily eat small to medium-sized frozen/thawed prey items. These items are high in protein and calcium.
Depending on the stage of life, you’ll need to feed your snake different types of prey. For example, baby ball pythons will only eat small rodents, whereas an adult ball python will eat a wide variety of animals, including mice, rats, gerbils, and chicks.
Keep a vigilant eye on your ball python
Keeping a ball python in captivity can be challenging. It’s important to provide a healthy environment for your snake, as well as food and water. You also need to watch your python for signs of illness or injury.
If your snake isn’t eating, or if it appears to be dehydrated, it’s a good idea to take it to the vet. Snakes don’t cough, so if your python is coughing, it’s possible that it’s suffering from a respiratory infection. You’ll need to make sure that it is in a healthy condition before feeding it again.
In the wild, ball pythons go through a fasting period. It may last for up to a month. If your snake doesn’t eat for longer than 17 days, it’s possible that it is sick. It may also be a sign of brumation.
