Substrate comes in many forms for reptiles, and choosing a particular bedding can be confusing. In ball python care, substrate type and amount used determines how much humidity is available in the habitat. For ball pythons, a high, consistent humidity is required to keep them healthy. Find out more about humidity on this page.
The type of substrate and amount needed for a ball python depends on the humidity of the room, the type and size of the enclosure being used, and size of the water bowl. Some experimentation will be necessary to determine what substrate is best and how much is needed to maintain humidity.
+ It is important to remember that ball pythons require a minimum humidity of 55%, although 60-65% is the ideal amount.
When considering substrate, keep these in mind:
+ tanks often have more difficulty maintaining water content compared to PVC or tubs, thusly they will need several inches of water-holding substrate.
+ aspen and pine chips should not be mixed with water-holding substrate as they will quickly mold
The small triangle denotes substrates better suited for tanks and drier locations.
The type of substrate and amount needed for a ball python depends on the humidity of the room, the type and size of the enclosure being used, and size of the water bowl. Some experimentation will be necessary to determine what substrate is best and how much is needed to maintain humidity.
+ It is important to remember that ball pythons require a minimum humidity of 55%, although 60-65% is the ideal amount.
When considering substrate, keep these in mind:
+ tanks often have more difficulty maintaining water content compared to PVC or tubs, thusly they will need several inches of water-holding substrate.
+ aspen and pine chips should not be mixed with water-holding substrate as they will quickly mold
The small triangle denotes substrates better suited for tanks and drier locations.