If you know anything at all about snakes, you know that they can thrive just about anywhere in the world. They can live in meadows, forests, deserts, woodlands, and even water. They are versatile creatures that can endure various exciting challenges.
Ball pythons are common among snake keepers because these delightful beauties are easy to keep and have relaxed personalities and adaptive attributes. So, you might wonder: Do ball pythons ever like to go swimming? The answer is yes, ball pythons can swim, but they’d rather soak in the water. Read on as we take a closer look at the ball python’s swimming preferences.
Ball Pythons’ Natural Habitat
Ball pythons are native to the sub-Saharan part of Africa, just north of the equator. They inhabit grasslands, savannas, and open forests, needing coverage to hide from predators.
Ball pythons aren’t as shy as you might think, however. They also love hiding in industrialized areas like plantations and farms, as there are plentiful resources, including food and water.
Can Ball Pythons Swim?
Yes, a ball python can swim. However, they only do so out of necessity and not as a leisurely activity. They like to soak in water, especially when shedding. In the wild, they prefer to stay by a water source so they have direct access to it.
There is no reason to fill up a tub for your pet ball python, though. They need just a small amount of relaxing water, usually no deeper than an inch or so.
Do Ball Pythons Get Into Water in Nature?
Ball pythons, like any other creature, need water to survive. But perhaps surprisingly, you can mostly find these snakes beside open water. They use these natural water resources to maintain the correct body temperature.
These snakes are tropical reptiles that enjoy the sultry, humid atmospheres that come with the territory. So, they love taking a little soak and then basking on a rock.
Water Is Important for Snake Care
When you set up your python’s environment, the humidity gauge—also known as the hydrometer—monitors the humidity level in the enclosure. Your snake also needs access to fresh water at all times.
Whether you give your snake water to drink or soak in, you need to make sure it’s totally safe. For best results, only offer bottled or spring water. Tap water can have chemical compounds like chlorine that can be dangerous for your pet. You should also avoid distilled water since it lacks many necessary minerals.
If your snake lacks proper hydration, it can cause many issues. Without a water source, they can have trouble shedding or suffer other health issues. If you notice that your ball python is shedding in pieces instead of one solid skin, you might need to monitor the humidity in the enclosure closely because they likely aren’t getting enough.
Humidity Levels in Your Ball Python’s Habitat
A ball python should live with humidity levels between 50 and 60 percent. Their respiratory systems need these levels to function appropriately, and it helps keep their scales healthy.
Misting Your Ball Python
Water is exceptionally healthy for your snake’s scales. It keeps their exterior supple and movable, and they can also shed easily when that time comes.
Ball pythons need a moist substrate. Water-retaining substrates for ball pythons include:
- Coconut husk
- Reptile bark
- Cypress mulch
Some ball pythons might be picky about their substrate, but these types will soak up the water, maintaining the humidity. A gentle daily misting can keep things in order.
Allowing Your Ball Python to Soak
Ball pythons absolutely love to soak in water. If you have a big enough water bowl, you might have seen them curled up inside a few times. One fascinating fact about ball pythons—and all snakes, for that matter—is that they can absorb water through their skin.
So, even though it might not seem like you see them drinking often, soaking is essentially the same thing for water absorption.
Final Thoughts
Ball pythons not only like water, but they also require it on land and in the air to survive efficiently. So, even though your ball python won’t want to swim through deep waters, they do enjoy a good bowl soak. You can mist them daily and give them their own area to wade and sunbathe.
Always make sure to check the humidity and other factors in the habitat to help your python stay safe and cozy.
Featured Image Credit: Ryan M. Bolton, Shutterstock
