Ball Python (Yellowbelly) Python regiusCommon Names: Ball Python, Royal Python Species Overview Size: Adults typically grow 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 m), with females often being larger and heavier-bodied. Some females may approach 6 feet. Appearance: Yellowbelly (co-dominant – visual): A subtle but powerful morph, the Yellowbelly often resembles a normal ball python at first glance. Key indicators include belly checkering, flames along the sides, increased contrast, and warmer golden tones. Though sometimes understated on its own, Yellowbelly is highly influential in combos, often brightening colours and enhancing contrast. Distribution: Wild-type ball pythons are native to West and Central Africa, living in savannahs, grasslands, and lightly wooded habitats. Habitat: A primarily terrestrial, burrow-dwelling species, frequently found in rodent tunnels that provide shelter, humidity, and temperature stability. Behaviour: A nocturnal ambush predator, feeding mainly on small mammals and birds. Captive Care Enclosure: Adults thrive in a 40-gallon breeder (36” × 18” × 18”) or equivalent. Provide secure hides on both warm and cool ends, climbing décor, and a water dish large enough for soaking. Temperature & Humidity: Maintain daytime temperatures of 78–82°F (25–28°C) with a basking area at 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime drops to 72–75°F (22–24°C) are acceptable. Keep humidity around 50–60%, with slight increases during shedding. Diet: Juveniles should be fed hopper mice or rat pups every 5–7 days; adults generally thrive on medium rats every 10–14 days. Match prey size to the snake’s girth. Behaviour in Captivity: Yellowbellies are docile, hardy, and calm, like most ball pythons, making them excellent captives for both beginners and experienced keepers. Special Considerations: While morphs alter pattern and colour, husbandry requirements remain identical across all ball python morphs. Genetics Note Yellowbelly (Co-Dominant – Visual): In its single-gene form, it produces subtle belly checkering, brighter golden tones, and side flames. Super Yellowbelly (Homozygous): When two copies are inherited, the result is the Ivory Ball Python, an all-white morph with faint yellow striping and blue eyes. Combo Influence: Yellowbelly is a key ingredient in Freeway (Asphalt × YB) and Highway (Gravel × YB) morphs, as well as many other high-brightness projects. The Yellowbelly Ball Python is one of the most influential co-dominant morphs in the hobby, prized for its ability to brighten and transform combos while being the foundation for several highly sought-after designer morphs.
