Python, Ball/Royal

Ball pythons can grow between 1 and 2 m, and have a stockier body than other pythons. Like all pythons, ball pythons have small spurs near their cloaca (the reptile equivalent of an anus). These spurs are ancient remnants of legs, and tend to be larger in males. To facilitate nocturnal hunting these pythons have heat sensors located near their mouths.

Ball pythons are nocturnal hunters that hunt primarily by using smell (using their forked tongue). As a result of their cold blooded bodies, they have been known not to hunt when the temperature drops below 21°C.

Ball pythons are endangered because of the pressures put on their populations by the pet trade and hunting for their beautiful skin.