The Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python, often abbreviated as BEL, is one of the most stunning and sought-after morphs in the ball python world. With its striking white coloration and captivating blue eyes, this snake has captured the hearts of many reptile enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, care requirements, and challenges of keeping a Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python as a pet.
Price Comparison Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python | ||||||
Website | Price | Shipping Price | Shipping Country | Ratings | Additional Details | Link |
MorphMarket | $400 – $850 | Varies by seller | Worldwide | 4.5/5 | Captive-bred reptiles from different breeders. | MorphMarket |
XYZReptiles | $349 | Free Shipping on orders over $100 | USA | 5/5 | Baby Blue-Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons are available. | XYZReptiles |
CB Reptile | $499.95 – $1,299.95 | Free | USA | 4.5/5 | Juvenile blue-eyed, leucistic ball Pythons | CB Reptile |
Imperial Reptiles | $950 – $1200 | Varies | USA | 4.7/5 | Various Blue-Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons. | Imperial Reptiles |
Snakes at Sunset | $399.99 | Free on orders over $100 | USA | 4.6/5 | Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons | Snakes at Sunset |
Exotic Reptiles | $400 – $1600 | Varies | USA | 4.5/5 | Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons | Exotic Reptiles |
Tortoises World | $480 – $840 | Varies | USA | 4.4/5 | Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons | Tortoises World |
Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Pet Care Products | ||
Product | Purpose | Example Products |
Enclosure | Provides a safe and controlled habitat | Glass Terrarium, PVC Enclosure |
Substrate | Maintains humidity and cleanliness | Cypress Mulch, Coconut Husk, Reptile Carpet |
Hide Boxes | Offers a secure place for the snake to hide | Exo Terra Reptile Cave, Zoo Med Habba Hut |
Water Dish | Provides water for drinking and soaking | Exo Terra Water Dish, Zoo Med Reptile Rock Water Dish |
Heat Source | Maintains proper temperature gradient | Under Tank Heater, Ceramic Heat Emitter |
Thermostat | Regulates the heat source to prevent overheating | Herpstat, Inkbird ITC-306T |
Thermometer/Hygrometer | Monitors temperature and humidity levels | Zoo Med Digital Thermometer, Exo Terra Hygrometer |
Lighting | Provides a day-night cycle (optional) | Low-wattage LED, Daylight Bulb |
Feeding Tongs | Safely offers food to the snake | Stainless Steel Feeding Tongs, Bamboo Feeding Tongs |
Cleaning Supplies | Keeps the enclosure sanitary | Zoo Med Wipe Out 1, Fluker’s Eco Clean All Natural Reptile Waste Remover |
Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Scientific Classification | |
Classification | Details |
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Reptilia |
Order | Squamata |
Suborder | Serpentes |
Family | Pythonidae |
Genus | Python |
Species | Python regius |
Common Name | Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python |
Morph | Blue Eyed Leucistic |
Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Characteristics | |
Characteristic | Details |
Appearance | Pure white body with striking blue eyes |
Size | 3 to 5 feet in length |
Lifespan | 20 to 30 years in captivity |
Temperament | Docile and gentle, suitable for handling |
Diet | Carnivorous; primarily eats rodents |
Habitat | Requires a terrarium with controlled temperature and humidity |
Temperature | Warm side: 88-92°F, Cool side: 78-80°F |
Humidity | 50-60%, higher during shedding periods |
Lighting | No UVB required, but a regular day-night cycle is beneficial |
Breeding | Can be bred with specific morphs to produce BELs; requires temperature cycling for breeding |
Health Issues | Prone to respiratory infections, mites, and shedding problems |
Handling | Regular handling is recommended to maintain tameness |
Cost | $500 to $1500, depending on the breeder and specific traits |
Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Characteristics
Appearance
The Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python has a perfect white body and stunning blue eyes. People know it for these features. Unlike albino ball pythons, which have red eyes and yellowish skin, BELs are plain white. They have no patterns or markings. Their blue eyes come from leucism, a genetic defect that affects pigment cells. This morph’s appeal stems from its simplicity and grace.
Size and Lifespan
The Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python, like other ball pythons, develops to be around 3 to 5 feet long. Females tend to be bigger than males. With proper care, these snakes can live 20 to 30 years in captivity. This requires a long-term commitment from any pet owner.
Temperament
People note that Blue-Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons are friendly and docile. They are usually quiet and tolerant of handling. So, they make great pets for new and seasoned reptile owners. Each snake has a unique personality. Some may be more reserved or defensive than others.
Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Pet Care Guide
Housing
Proper housing is critical to the health and well-being of your Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python. Here are several important considerations:
- Enclosure Size: A 20-gallon tank is sufficient for a juvenile, however an adult need a 40-gallon tank or greater.
- Substrate: Choose a medium that maintains humidity effectively, such as cypress dirt, coconut husk, or reptile-specific bedding.
- Hides: Provide at least two hides one on the warm side and one on the cold side of the enclosure. This offers your snake a sense of safety.
- Climbing Branches: While ball pythons are primarily ground-dwellers, they enjoy climbing occasionally. Adding branches or logs can enrich their environment.
- Water Dish: Ensure a large water dish is available for drinking and soaking.
Temperature and Humidity
Keeping your Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python comfy is essential. Just like us, they thrive in specific temperatures and humidity levels. Create the perfect environment for their happiness and health. Remember, a cozy snake is a happy snake!
- Temperature: Craft a temperature gradient that whispers warmth and coolness. The heated side should bask in a cozy 88-92°F glow. Meanwhile, the cool side should linger in a refreshing 78-80°F embrace. Employ a thermostat to harmonize your heating devices with precision.
- Humidity: Ball pythons flourish in the shadows, needing no UVB light. However, a harmonious dance of day and night keeps them vibrant. Strive for a balanced cycle: twelve hours of light, twelve of darkness. If they crave a touch more brightness, choose a soft, low-wattage bulb to light up their day.
Lighting
Ball pythons flourish in the dim light of their natural world. A balanced rhythm of day and night works wonders for their well-being. Strive for twelve hours of warm light and twelve hours of soothing darkness. Should they need a little boost, choose a soft, low-wattage bulb to enhance their habitat.
Feeding
Feeding your Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python properly is essential for its growth and health.
- Diet: Ball pythons are carnivores and primarily eat rodents. Feed appropriately sized prey items, such as mice or rats, every 1-2 weeks. Prey should be no wider than the widest part of your snake’s body.
- Feeding Method: Serve thawed frozen prey instead of live to keep your snake safe. Tongs are your trusty sidekick for serving—preventing accidental bites with every meal.
- Hydration: Always provide fresh water. Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons may soak in their water dish, especially before shedding.
Challenges of Keeping a Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python
Initial Cost
The Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python is a costly, rare morph. It’s prized for its beauty. Prices can range from several hundred to over one thousand dollars. Be prepared for this initial investment.
Health Issues
As with all reptiles, Blue-Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons may face health hurdles.
- Respiratory Infections: If the enclosure turns too cold or damp, problems may arise. Look out for signs like wheezing, nasal discharge, and open-mouth breathing. Should these symptoms appear, promptly seek veterinary care!
- Mites: These external parasites can cause significant discomfort and health problems. Inspect your snake and its enclosure for signs of mites on a regular basis.
- Shedding Problems: Humidity levels are crucial for successful sheds. If they’re off, sheds may not complete. Monitor humidity closely, and provide a humid hide when necessary for optimal comfort.
Feeding Challenges
Some ball pythons, including Blue Eyed Leucistics, can be picky eaters. They may refuse food, especially during shedding, stress, or breeding seasons. Patience and consistency are key. If your snake consistently refuses food, consult a reptile veterinarian.
Handling and Socialization
While Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons are generally docile, proper handling and socialization are important.
- Handling Frequency: Handle your snake regularly to keep it accustomed to human interaction, but avoid handling immediately after feeding.
- Supportive Handling: Cradle your snake’s body gently, wrapping it in security. Sudden movements? Avoid them like a rattlesnake’s strike. And remember, no grabbing its head keep calm and handle with care.
- Recognizing Stress: Become a keen observer of your snake’s mood. Watch for hissing, striking, or hiding; these are clear indicators of stress. If your scaly friend appears anxious, grant them space and patience. Allow time for adjustment, ensuring a comfortable and harmonious environment.
Breeding Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons
Breeding Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons is a thrilling adventure with its challenges. Unraveling the genetics of this stunning morph is essential for success.
Genetics
The Blue Eyed Leucistic trait is the result of combining certain co-dominant or dominant genes. Common pairings include Mojave x Mojave, Lesser x Lesser, or Butter x Butter. Breeding two visual BELs together will produce 100% BEL offspring.
Breeding Season
Ball pythons breed during the cooler months. Gradually lower the temperature in the enclosure to simulate seasonal changes. Introduce the male to the female’s enclosure and check their interactions.
Incubation and Hatching
Once the female has laid her eggs, carefully transfer them to an incubator. Set the temperature to a warm 88-90°F, paired with high humidity for optimal conditions. In approximately 55 to 60 days, expect those eggs to hatch. Be ready to embrace the responsibility of nurturing numerous lively hatchlings.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python poisonous?
Blue-Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons are not poisonous, but rather delightful constrictors. They catch their meals by coiling around, ensuring a cozy squeeze. With calm temperaments, these snakes are generally safe to handle. Their docile nature makes them a beloved choice for pet enthusiasts everywhere.
2. Can you breed two Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python?
Yes, you can breed two Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons. Breeding two BELs will produce 100% BEL offspring. The leucistic trait is genetic. This makes breeding BELs a predictable way to produce more of this stunning morph.
3. How much are Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python?
Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons usually have a price range of $500 to $1,500.
4. How to breed Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python?
Breed two snakes with the BEL gene, like Mojave x Mojave or Lesser x Lesser. This will create Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons. Keep a temperature gradient and proper humidity to breed perfectly. Once mating is successful, nurture the eggs until they hatch at 88 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
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