Ball Python Enclosures

Did you know that ball pythons can live up to 30 years under proper care?

That ‘proper care’ starts with choosing the correct snake enclosure, and we’ll help you find it.

close up view of the face of a ball python

Sizes for a Ball Python Enclosure

Ball pythons can grow to about 5 feet long by adulthood, so they must have enough room to roam.

For adult ball pythons, we recommend our Model 332 Vision Cage and Model 433 Vision Cage.

If you’re housing a baby snake and don’t want to invest in a big cage yet, the Model 211 Vision Cage could be your pet’s first home!

Want to see more sizes and designs?

Explore all of our Vision Cages!

How to Set Up a Ball Python Enclosure

ball python in its fully set up enclosure

In the wild, these snakes are found in tropical regions in West and Central Africa. Specific areas where they live are grasslands, open forests, and savannahs, usually by open water.

They occasionally climb into trees and hang from the branches, but they spend most of their time on the ground or in burrows left by rodents.

Read on for tips to design a comfy ball python enclosure.

Ball Python Enclosure Temperature

A Ball Python temperature gradient should consist of a cool side, a warm side, and a basking area.

Also, decrease the heat and lights at night for a cooler ambient temperature.

  • Cool Side: 75-80°F
  • Warm Side: 80-85°F
  • Basking Area: 87-92°F
  • Nighttime Temperature: 70°F

Humidity Levels for Ball Pythons

Ball Pythons prefer a humidity level between 60-70%.

Vision Cages hold moisture well, helping maintain the appropriate humidity. You can measure the density by placing a humidity gauge near the center of your python’s enclosure.

Is humidity dropping below 50%?

You can increase it by misting inside the cage twice daily (once in the morning and once at night).

Plus, we offer specific substrates and misters to help you maintain the necessary humidity.

Substrate for Ball Python Cages

We recommend finding a soil-based substrate to mimic their natural habitat, like ReptiSoil.

This bedding is made specifically for reptile cages as it holds moisture, drains well, is hard to ingest, and allows for burrowing.

Paper towels are also a viable option for snakes. This option is cheap, easy to replace, and safe for your pet.

However, paper towels don’t hold moisture well, you need to replace them more often, and it doesn’t provide a great cage aesthetic.

Also, avoid fine shavings and sand because ball pythons can easily ingest them.

We also don’t recommend carpet because your python can’t burrow underneath it. An environment without hides can harm a snake’s mental health, regardless of age.

Accessories for a Ball Python Enclosure

Ball pythons are semi-arboreal snakes, meaning they may climb into trees for foraging or resting. They also enjoy burrowing, so you should include accessories that fit both activities.

Include branches and elevated surfaces in their enclosure. These encourage exercise and they’re great spots for your python to relax closer to the heat source.

Also, ball pythons tend to be secluded, so adding cave hides and a deep substrate is recommended. Your snake will want cooler, darker areas to relax or hide when needed.

We also offer food and water bowls for your enclosure. We have many sizes available, so you’ll find one perfect for your enclosure!

More Options for Housing Ball Pythons

If you would like a much larger and more elaborate setup, visit our sister company, Custom Cages, and explore their enclosures for adult Ball Pythons.

Also, if your snake(s) is intended for breeding, we produce breeding rack systems for snakes, rodents, and more!