Blue Eye Leucistic Ball Python: Care, Lifespan, Size and More

If you are looking for a stunning snake that will make you stand out from the crowd, you might want to consider the blue eyed leucistic ball python.

The Blue-Eyed Leucistic Ball Python, known for its milky white scales and piercing blue eyes, is a fascinating snake that has piqued the interests of both newbie and experienced snake keepers!

This rare morph of the ball python has a striking appearance that is hard to miss. It has pure white skin and bright blue eyes that contrast beautifully with each other. But how do you get one of these snakes, and what do they need to thrive as pets?

In this post, we will answer all your questions about the blue eyed leucistic ball python, including its care, diet genetics, price, and rarity.

What Is A Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python?

Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons, often abbreviated as BEL, are a highly sought-after morph of the popular ball python species.

They are characterized by their nearly all-white appearance and stunning blue eyes. The result of a combination of specific genetic traits, these snakes are highly prized among reptile keepers for their beauty and rarity.

Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons have a striking appearance that sets them apart from other ball python morphs. Their most distinctive feature is their blue eyes, which contrast beautifully against their predominantly white skin.

The white coloration is not a true albino trait, but rather the outcome of leucism, a condition that causes a partial loss of pigmentation. As a result, BEL ball pythons have a clean, pure white appearance with a subtle, creamy undertone.

Their history is rooted deep in common ball pythons from Africa. In 1992 the first recessive gene was isolated by professional snakebreeders and the first clutch of morphs was born. Since then, breeders have discovered hundreds of morphs and blue eyed leucistic is on of them.

What Makes A Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python?

Leucism is caused by a combination of two recessive genes, meaning that both parents must contribute the gene for the offspring to display the trait. In the case of the BEL, this typically involves the Mojave and Lesser genes, which are part of the same allelic complex.

An allelic complex is a group of genes located on the same chromosome that can be combined to create unique traits.

The Mojave and Lesser genes are part of the blue eyed leucistic complex, but other combinations can also produce leucistic ball pythons, such as the combination of Butter and Mojave genes or Butter and Lesser genes.

The blue eyed leucistic ball python is the result of a combination of specific genetic traits from various morphs.

To produce a BEL, breeders often pair two different morphs with the same recessive leucistic trait, such as the Mojave and Lesser morphs, or the Butter and Russo morphs.

When these morphs are bred together, there is a chance that the offspring will inherit the leucistic trait from both parents, resulting in the stunning blue eyed leucistic ball python.

BEL Ball Python Species Appearance

The most distinguishing feature of a Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python is its pure white, almost creamy, and smooth scale color.

This stunning appearance is a result of two or more different recessive genes coming together to create the leucistic trait.

What makes this snake even more remarkable are its piercing blue eyes, which contrast beautifully against its white scales, making it a sought-after pet among reptile enthusiasts.

How Big Does A Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Get?

Blue eyed leucistic ball pythons typically reach an average length of 3 to 5 feet, with males generally being smaller than females.

In terms of weight, BEL ball pythons can weigh between 1,200 to 1,800 grams when fully grown. Comparatively, regular ball pythons have a similar size range, so there isn’t a significant difference in size between the two morphs.

Blue eyed leucistic ball pythons grow at a steady rate, usually reaching their full size at around 3 to 4 years of age.

Just like with any ball python, the size of a blue eyed leucistic ball python can be influenced by several factors:

• Genetics: The genetic makeup of the python plays a significant role in determining its size. Offspring from larger parents may be predisposed to grow bigger.
• Diet: A well-balanced diet with an appropriate feeding schedule is crucial to ensure healthy growth.
• Overall Health: Health issues, such as parasites or illness, can stunt the growth of a ball python.

I’ve had the pleasure of raising several blue eyed leucistic ball pythons, and I’ve found that with proper care, they grow steadily and reach their full size without any issues.

My largest BEL ball python, Luna, currently measures 4.5 feet in length and weighs around 1,600 grams. She’s a beautiful and healthy specimen, and I attribute her size and well-being to consistent husbandry practices.

Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Lifespan

Blue eyed leucistic ball pythons typically live longer in captivity than in the wild. On average, they can live up to 20-30 years in captivity, while their lifespan in the wild is generally shorter due to factors such as predation and diseases.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons

Several factors can impact the lifespan of blue eyed leucistic ball pythons, including genetics, diet, and proper care.

Ensuring a healthy environment, providing a balanced diet, and maintaining consistent husbandry practices are crucial for promoting a long, healthy life.

Tips for Ensuring a Healthy and Long Life

1. Proper diet: A balanced diet is essential for the health and longevity of blue eyed leucistic ball pythons. Feed them appropriately-sized rodents, such as mice or rats, every 7-14 days, depending on their age and size.
2. Appropriate housing: Provide a suitable enclosure with a temperature gradient, adequate humidity, and hiding spots. This ensures that your snake can regulate its body temperature and feel secure in its environment.
3. Consistent handling: Regular, gentle handling can help your snake become more comfortable with human interaction and reduce stress.

Pros and Cons of Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Pythons

Pros:

1. Stunning Appearance: The striking all-white coloration and enchanting blue eyes make BEL Ball Pythons an eye-catching addition to any reptile collection. Their appearance sets them apart from other ball python morphs, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts.
2. Gentle Nature: Like other ball pythons, BEL Ball Pythons are known for their docile temperament. They are typically easy to handle, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced reptile keepers.
3. Manageable Size: Ball pythons, including the BEL morph, have a moderate size compared to other pythons. They usually grow to be around 3-5 feet in length, making them suitable for most living spaces.
4. Low Maintenance: Ball pythons are relatively low-maintenance pets, requiring a simple enclosure setup and a consistent feeding schedule. This makes them an appealing option for busy reptile enthusiasts or those new to keeping snakes.

Cons:

1. Cost: Due to their stunning appearance, BEL Ball Pythons can be more expensive than other ball python morphs. Be prepared to invest a bit more when purchasing a BEL Ball Python from a reputable breeder.
2. Availability: The demand for BEL Ball Pythons can sometimes outpace supply, making them harder to find than more common morphs. You may need to be patient and do some research to find a trustworthy breeder with BEL Ball Pythons available.
3. Feeding Challenges: Ball pythons, including the BEL morph, can sometimes be finicky eaters, especially when transitioning from live to frozen-thawed prey. This can be a challenge for some keepers, but with patience and perseverance, most ball pythons can be encouraged to eat consistently.

Typical Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Behavior

Blue eyed leucistic ball pythons are known for their docile and gentle nature. They are generally quite easy to handle, even for beginners, making them an ideal pet snake.

In my personal experience, they are less prone to stress and are more curious than other ball python morphs, which adds to their appeal.

Like most ball pythons, blue eyed leucistics are nocturnal creatures, which means they are most active during the night. During the day, they prefer to hide in their hides or burrows to escape the heat and light.

Feeding Habits

Blue eyed leucistic ball pythons are known to have good appetites and typically accept frozen-thawed rodents without issue.

However, it’s important to monitor their feeding habits closely, as they may occasionally refuse food due to stress or other factors.

As a snake owner, I’ve found that offering food in a low-stress environment, such as their enclosure, can help improve their feeding response.

Ball Python “Ball” Behavior

A distinct behavior of ball pythons, including the blue eyed leucistic morph, is their tendency to curl up into a tight ball when feeling threatened or stressed. This defensive mechanism helps protect their vulnerable head.

Make sure to approach your snake calmly and gently to avoid triggering this behavior and ensure a positive handling experience.

Shedding and Growth

During their growth, blue eyed leucistic ball pythons will go through regular shedding cycles. It’s vital to monitor their behavior during this time, as they may become more reclusive and sensitive to handling.

I’ve found that providing a humidity box or misting the enclosure can significantly help with successful shedding.

Do Ball Pythons Like Being Handled?

While ball pythons, including the blue eyed leucistic morph, are solitary creatures, they can tolerate handling and social interaction with their keepers. By establishing a trusting relationship and respecting their boundaries, you can enjoy bonding with your snake and better understand its behavior.

Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python Care Sheet

The bel ball python is a gentle and curious snake that can form a bond with its owner over time.

If this beautiful beginner snake has captured your attention, read on to learn how you can bring one home and care for them.

Housing and Enclosure

The bel ball python morph shares the same primitive instincts as their wild-type relatives and need the same habitat setup.

1. Enclosure size and materials

A blue ryed leucistic ball python, like other ball pythons, requires an enclosure that is spacious enough for them to move around and explore comfortably.

For a juvenile, a 20-gallon enclosure is suitable, while an adult may require a 40-gallon tank or larger. The material of the enclosure should be easy to clean and maintain, with glass or PVC being popular choices among reptile enthusiasts.

2. Temperature requirements

Blue ryed leucistic ball python thrive in a temperature gradient within their enclosure. Provide a warm basking area with a temperature of around 88-92°F (31-33°C) and a cooler area with a temperature of around 78-80°F (25-27°C).

Use an under-tank heating pad or heat tape to maintain consistent temperatures, and always monitor them using a reliable digital thermometer.

3. Humidity requirements

Maintaining appropriate humidity levels is crucial for your snake’s health, especially during shedding. Aim for a humidity level of 50-60% in the enclosure, with a slight increase to 70% during shedding periods.

You can maintain humidity by using a humidity gauge and misting the enclosure as needed.

4. Substrate and hiding spots

The substrate you choose should be comfortable for your snake and easy to clean. Popular substrate options include aspen shavings, cypress mulch, or coconut coir.

Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as they can be harmful to your snake’s respiratory system.

5. Hiding Spots

Hiding spots are essential for your blue ryed leucistic ball python’s sense of security and well-being. Provide at least two hiding spots: one in the warm area and one in the cool area.

You can use commercially available hides, or repurpose household items like upside-down plastic containers with an entrance hole cut out.

Diet and Feeding

Blue ryed leucistic ball python, like other ball python morphs, are primarily carnivorous, feeding on small mammals. Their preferred food sources include rats and mice.

Blue ryed leucistic ball pythons don’t have unique dietary requirements compared to other ball python morphs. However, as with any snake, individual preferences and sensitivities may arise.

Some pythons may be pickier eaters or have specific temperature preferences for their prey.

Make sure to provide prey items of appropriate size, typically no larger than the widest part of the snake’s body.

I’ve found that feeding frozen-thawed prey is more humane and safer for the snake, as live prey can potentially harm the python during feeding.

Feeding frequency and portion sizes

The frequency and portion sizes of meals depend on the snake’s life stage.

• For hatchlings, I recommend feeding them once every 5 to 7 days, offering small mice.
• As they grow into juveniles, you can gradually increase the prey size and feed them every 7 to 10 days.
• Adult Blue Eye Leucistic Ball Pythons can be fed every 10 to 14 days, with appropriately sized rats or mice.

To establish a healthy feeding routine, it’s important to create a low-stress environment during feeding time. I like to thaw frozen prey in a plastic bag in warm water until it reaches room temperature, then use tongs to offer the prey to the snake. Gently wiggle the prey to mimic the movement, enticing the python to strike and constrict. If your python is hesitant to accept frozen-thawed prey, try covering its enclosure to provide privacy and reduce stress during feeding.

Health and Common Issues

Blue eyed leucistic ball pythons are one of several designer pythons that rarely show any genetic problems such as head wobbles.

However, like any other pet, blue eye leucistic ball pythons may face certain health issues. Some common ones include:

1. Respiratory infections: Symptoms include wheezing, mucus discharge, and difficulty breathing. Maintain proper temperature and humidity levels to prevent these infections.
2. Shedding issues: Incomplete shedding can lead to retained eye caps and skin. Provide adequate humidity and a shedding box to aid the process.
3. Parasites: Mites and ticks can infest your snake, causing discomfort and potential health issues. Regularly inspect your snake and its enclosure for any signs of parasites.
4. Mouth rot: This bacterial infection can cause swelling and discharge from the mouth. Ensure proper hygiene and a clean enclosure to prevent mouth rot.

Signs of Good Health

A healthy blue eye leucistic ball python will exhibit the following traits:

1. Clear, bright eyes (except during shedding)
2. Clean, undamaged scales
3. Regular eating and defecation habits
4. Alert and responsive behavior
5. No visible signs of injury or parasites

Routine Health Checks

To keep your snake in top shape, perform routine health checks, including:

1. Observing its behavior and activity levels
2. Checking for injuries, scale damage, or signs of infection
3. Monitoring its shedding process
4. Ensuring proper humidity, temperature, and enclosure cleanliness

When to Consult a Reptile Veterinarian

If your blue eye leucistic ball python displays any unusual symptoms or behaviors, it’s essential to consult a reptile veterinarian. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and prevent more severe health problems.

Handling and Socialization

Establishing trust and creating a strong bond between you and your blue eye leucistic ball python is crucial. Regular handling and socialization help your snake become more comfortable with you and their environment, making routine care and health check-ups much easier.

Best Practices for Handling

When approaching your blue eyed leucistic ball python, move slowly and deliberately. Avoid hovering over them, as this can make them feel threatened.

Instead, approach from the side, gently sliding your hand under the middle of their body. Support their weight evenly and avoid squeezing or constricting their movements. Remember to always wash your hands before and after handling to prevent the spread of germs or bacteria.

Frequency and Duration of Handling Sessions

The ideal frequency and duration of handling sessions depend on your snake’s age, health, and temperament. Generally, handling your blue eye leucistic ball python for about 10-15 minutes, two to three times a week, should suffice. However, be sure to give them a day or two of rest after feeding to avoid stress and regurgitation.

Creating a Positive Environment

To ensure a positive experience for both you and your snake during handling sessions, minimize loud noises and sudden movements. Speak softly and calmly to your snake, and offer gentle strokes or pats as positive reinforcement.

Signs of Stress or Discomfort

Watch for signs of stress or discomfort during handling, such as hissing, striking, or trying to escape. If your snake exhibits these signs, gently return them to their enclosure and give them some time to calm down before attempting another handling session.

Consistency and Patience

Consistent handling and socialization are key to building trust with your blue eye leucistic ball python. By being gentle, patient, and understanding of your snake’s unique needs, you’ll create a strong bond that will last for the entirety of your pet’s life. Remember, a well-socialized snake is a happy and healthy snake!

Breeding and Genetics

Breeding blue eye leucistic ball pythons can be a fascinating and rewarding experience for reptile enthusiasts. However, it’s essential to understand the genetic aspects and ethical considerations involved in the process.

1. The Breeding Process

Breeding ball pythons typically starts with introducing a compatible male and female, both of which should be healthy and of appropriate size and age.

It’s crucial to monitor the snakes closely during this period to ensure their well-being and successful breeding. The female will eventually lay eggs, which need to be incubated at a specific temperature and humidity level to ensure successful hatching.

As a ball python keeper, I’ve found that maintaining optimal conditions and closely monitoring the process is key to success.

2. Genetic Aspects

The blue eye leucistic trait is the result of a combination of two different incomplete dominant genes. These genes work together to create the unique appearance of a blue eye leucistic ball python.

It’s important to understand the different morphs involved in creating this trait, such as the Mojave and Lesser genes, as well as the potential combinations that can produce a blue eye leucistic offspring. Having a good grasp of ball python genetics will help you make informed decisions when breeding these fascinating reptiles.

3. Offspring Outcomes

When breeding blue eye leucistic ball pythons, there’s a chance of producing various offspring morphs, depending on the parents’ specific genetics.

Some of the potential outcomes include blue eye leucistics, single-gene Mojave or Lesser snakes, and other combinations of the involved genes. As a reptile keeper, I always find it thrilling to see the variety of morphs produced from a single clutch of eggs.

4. Ethical Considerations

Breeding reptiles, including blue eye leucistic ball pythons, comes with ethical considerations. It’s essential to ensure that the snakes involved in breeding are healthy and well-cared for.

Additionally, consider the potential demand for the offspring and the responsibility of finding suitable homes for them. As a reptile enthusiast, I believe it’s our duty to prioritize the well-being of these animals and ensure they’re bred responsibly and ethically.

Can You Combine the Leucistic Mutation with Others?

When it comes to the leucistic mutation, specifically the Blue Eye Leucistic (BEL) ball python, combining it with other morphs can lead to some truly stunning appearances.

The leucistic mutation is generally compatible with several other morphs, and this is often achieved through selective breeding. For example, crossing a Mojave with a Lesser ball python can produce the striking BEL with its pure white scales and bright blue eyes.

However, it’s important to note that there may be limitations and challenges when attempting to combine the leucistic mutation with other morphs.

Some genetic combinations may not result in viable offspring or could lead to potential health risks for the hatchlings. It’s crucial to research and understand these genetic incompatibilities before attempting to breed morphs together.

Selective breeding plays a significant role in creating new and unique morphs. However, it’s essential to consider the ethical implications of breeding for specific traits.

Responsible breeders should prioritize the health and well-being of the animals above aesthetics. This involves proper care, avoiding inbreeding, and not perpetuating morphs with known health issues.

How Much Is A Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python?

The price of these captivating reptiles can vary significantly based on several factors, including age, size, genetics, and breeder reputation.

The price range of blue eyed leucistic ball pythons typically starts around $300 and can go up to $1,000 or more, depending on the factors such as age, size, genetics, and breeder reputation.

Younger snakes or those with unique genetic traits may fetch a higher price, while more common specimens might be more affordable.

When it comes to purchasing your blue eyed leucistic ball python, you have several options, including reputable breeders, pet stores, and rescue organizations.

Reputable breeders generally offer higher quality snakes, as they prioritize the health and well-being of their animals. However, they may also charge a premium for their expertise and the quality of their stock.

Pet stores might have lower prices, but the quality and health of the snakes may be more uncertain. Rescue organizations are another great option, as they often have snakes in need of loving homes, and adoption fees are usually lower than purchasing from a breeder or pet store.

To find a trustworthy breeder or seller, take the time to research their background, ask for references, and visit their facility if possible. This will give you a better idea of their dedication to the health of their animals and help you make an informed decision.

It’s also important to consider the long-term costs of owning a blue eyed leucistic ball python. These costs include the expenses for a proper enclosure, food (such as frozen rodents), and veterinary care. While these expenses can add up, they’re crucial to ensuring your pet’s health and happiness.

Leucistic vs. Albino Ball Pythons: Key Differences

1. Pigment loss: While both leucistic and albino ball pythons experience a loss of pigmentation, the extent of this loss differs between the two. Leucistic ball pythons, such as the BEL, have an almost complete loss of pigmentation, resulting in a white or near-white coloration. In contrast, albino ball pythons have a partial loss of pigmentation, which gives them a yellow and white pattern with red or pink eyes.
2. Eye color: One of the most distinctive features of the BEL is its captivating blue eyes, which sets it apart from albino ball pythons, which have red or pink eyes.
3. Rarity: The Blue Eyed Leucistic Ball Python is considered rarer and more sought after in the pet trade compared to the albino ball python, due to the complexity of its genetic makeup and the striking beauty of its appearance.

Are Leucistic Pythons Sensitive to Light?

Because of their lack of melanin, albinistic creatures are generally sensitive to light. This is not true of Blue-eyed Leucistic ball pythons. They, like all other pythons, are not light-sensitive.

Ball pythons are nocturnal, and because Blue-eyed Leucistic s are a type of ball python, they are as well. You can care for your Blue-eyed Leucistic in the same way that you would a regular Ball python. (Only the Blue-eyed Leucistic  is colder!) Ball pythons, like the Blue-eyed Leucistic python, prefer small, dark, and cool environments.

Some breeders and pet owners use different kinds of lights to enhance the color or of their ball python. UVB lighting, heat lamps like this one , and other kinds of light and heat have all been used to help ball pythons.

Conclusion

Caring for a blue-eyed leucistic ball python can be a truly rewarding experience for reptile enthusiasts. As we’ve discussed throughout this article, it’s crucial to provide your blue-eyed beauty with the appropriate enclosure, temperature and humidity levels, diet, and handling techniques to ensure their health and happiness. Remember, these extraordinary creatures depend on us to meet their unique needs and maintain their well-being.

They are docile, tolerate being held, and move slowly, which is a welcome combination for most newcomers.

A corn snake is a good choice if you want a smaller snake with a lot of personality. The Brazilian Rainbow Boa is another popular choice. These long-lived snakes are an excellent addition to any reptile collection.