The ball python, also called the royal python, is a python species native to West and Central Africa, where it lives in grasslands, shrublands and open forests. This nonvenomous constrictor is the smallest of the African pythons, growing to a maximum length of 182 cm (72 in). The name "ball python" refers to its tendency to curl into a ball when stressed or frightened.
At a glance
- Scientific name
- Python regius
- Category
- Reptiles & amphibians
- Animal type
- Reptile
- Other names
- python ball
Some species are regulated (CITES, ownership permits) — check the rules before keeping one.
