What to Know Before Buying a Ball Python Online
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What to Know Before Buying a Ball Python Online
Ball pythons (Python regius) are one of the most popular pet reptiles in the world—and for good reason. They're calm, beautiful, and relatively easy to care for. Thanks to online reptile breeders and shops, finding your dream morph is easier than ever. But buying a live animal online requires more than just clicking "Add to Cart."
In this post, we'll walk you through what you need to know before buying a ball python online—how to choose a trustworthy seller, what questions to ask, and how to make sure you're getting a healthy, ethically sourced snake. If you’re thinking about adding one of these incredible creatures to your collection (or starting your first!), read this guide first.
1. Choose Captive-Bred Over Wild-Caught
Always look for a seller who offers captive-bred ball pythons. These snakes are bred in controlled environments, which reduces stress, disease risk, and supports responsible herpetoculture.
Wild-caught snakes are often stressed, parasite-ridden, and may struggle to eat in captivity. Captive-bred snakes, like the ones we raise and ship from our South Georgia facility, are socialized from hatching and accustomed to regular handling and feeding.
✅ All of our ball pythons are captive-bred and raised in clean, controlled environments.
2. Research the Breeder’s Reputation
A good breeder doesn’t just produce beautiful snakes—they educate, communicate, and stand behind their animals. Before you buy, check:
- Customer reviews on Google, MorphMarket, or social media
- Photos and videos of the actual animals for sale
- Clear policies on shipping, feeding, and live arrival guarantees
Red flags to avoid:
- Sellers who don’t respond to questions
- Stock images instead of real animal photos
- No mention of feeding schedules or genetics
🛡️ We’re proud to be trusted by hundreds of customers across the U.S. and Puerto Rico—and we stand behind every ball python with our Live Arrival Guarantee.
3. Understand the Morph You’re Buying
Ball pythons come in hundreds of morphs—each with unique color patterns and price points. Some are beginner-friendly and affordable, while others are rare or require careful genetic planning.
Before purchasing, make sure you understand:
- The genetics of the morph (especially if you plan to breed)
- Whether the price matches the market value
- Temperament and care differences (most morphs have similar care needs, but it's good to ask)
📚 Check out our guide: Top 10 Beginner Ball Python Morphs →
4. Ask About the Snake’s Feeding History
Feeding is one of the most important questions to ask when buying a ball python. A healthy snake should be eating regularly—and preferably taking frozen/thawed rodents.
Ask the seller:
- What has the snake been eating (mouse or rat)?
- How often does it eat?
- When was its last meal?
⚠️ A seller should never be vague or defensive about feeding. We provide detailed feeding records and support you in continuing the snake’s routine at home.
5. Know What’s Included (Shipping, Sex, Genetics)
Before buying, clarify what exactly is included with your purchase:
- Sex: Is the snake male or female? Is it probe-verified or visual?
- Genetics: Is the morph guaranteed? Are parents known?
- Shipping: Is overnight shipping included? Is there a Live Arrival Guarantee?
At Ghost Constrictors, we ship all ball pythons overnight via FedEx Priority with heat or cold packs as needed. Shipping is always free in the lower 48 states, unless noted, and our animals are backed by a Live Arrival Guarantee.
📦 Read our full shipping policy → Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
6. Prepare the Enclosure Before Your Snake Arrives
Buying a ball python online means you have time to get your setup just right before it ships. Make sure to have:
- A secure, escape-proof enclosure (minimum 4'x2'x2' for adults)
- Proper heating and humidity
- At least two hides and a large water bowl
- Digital thermometer and thermostat
🔥 Pro Tip: Always test your temps for 48 hours before your snake arrives to make adjustments safely.
📚 Full enclosure guide → Ball Python Care Guide
7. What to Expect on Arrival Day
When your snake arrives, it may be shy or tightly coiled due to travel. This is normal. Here’s how to help it settle in:
- Open the box immediately and inspect the animal
- Place it gently in its enclosure—do not handle right away
- Leave it alone for 5–7 days to adjust
- Avoid feeding until after this period
If you have any concerns about health or behavior, we’re just a message away. We want your snake to thrive from day one.
Why Buy From Us?
At Ghost Constrictors, we’re more than breeders—we’re keepers, educators, and reptile advocates. We specialize in captive-bred ball pythons with quality genetics, clear feeding histories, and beautiful morphs for all experience levels.
✅ Captive-bred & ethically raised ✅ Free Overnight shipping to the lower 48 states ✅ Live Arrival Guarantee ✅ Exceptional customer service & care guides
🐍 Ready to find your perfect ball python? Shop Available Ball Pythons →
Buying a ball python online is a big step—and a rewarding one when done right. By choosing a responsible, experienced seller and preparing your enclosure ahead of time, you’ll set your snake (and yourself) up for long-term success.
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Reach out anytime, or explore our blog for more care tips and morph guides.
