Pied 66% Het Caramel Granite Pythons For Sale
Pied 66% Het Caramel Granite Pythons are a visually captivating and genetically interesting morph of the Ball Python (Python regius). Here’s a detailed description of this unique snake morph:
Physical Description
- Coloration and Pattern: Pied Ball Pythons are known for their distinctive and dramatic piebald patterning, characterized by irregular patches of white and normal pigmentation. The “Pied” morph showcases these striking contrasts, creating a visually stunning appearance. When combined with the 66% Het Caramel Granite genes, the python may exhibit subtle influences from these recessive traits, though not always visually apparent unless the genes are expressed (i.e., the snake is a visual heterozygote).
- Size: Like other Ball Pythons, they typically reach lengths of 3 to 5 feet, with females generally being larger than males.
- Build: They have a stocky, muscular build with a relatively small head compared to their body size.
Genetics
- Pied: This is a recessive gene causing the piebald pattern, resulting in patches of normal color interspersed with unpigmented (white) areas.
- 66% Het Caramel: This indicates that the python has a 66% chance of carrying the Caramel Albino gene, a recessive trait that affects coloration, resulting in a caramel or butterscotch hue when homozygous.
- Granite: Another recessive trait that alters the pattern to have a more granular appearance, with small, fragmented spots and speckling.
Habitat and Distribution
- Habitat: In the wild, Ball Pythons inhabit grasslands, savannas, and open forests in West and Central Africa. Captive-bred morphs are kept in controlled environments.
- Geographic Range: Native to West and Central Africa, but the Pied 66% Het Caramel Granite morph is specifically bred in captivity.
Behavior and Diet
- Behavior: Ball Pythons are known for their docile nature and are popular pets due to their generally calm demeanor. They are nocturnal and spend much of the day hiding.
- Diet: In the wild, they feed on small mammals and birds. In captivity, they are typically fed a diet of appropriately sized rodents, such as mice or rats. Pied 66% Het Caramel Granite Pythons
Reproduction
- Breeding: Breeding for specific morphs like Pied 66% Het Caramel Granite requires careful genetic pairing. Breeders aim to produce visual and heterozygous offspring by pairing compatible genes.
- Development: Females lay clutches of 3 to 11 eggs, which incubate for about 55 to 60 days before hatching.
Captive Care
- Enclosure: A secure, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate hiding spots is essential. A 20-gallon tank is suitable for a young Ball Python, while adults may require a larger space.
- Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a temperature gradient with a basking spot around 88-92°F (31-33°C) and a cooler side around 78-80°F (25-27°C). Humidity should be kept at 50-60%, with higher levels during shedding.
- Feeding: Feed juveniles every 5-7 days and adults every 10-14 days. Fresh water should always be available.
Conservation
- Status: Ball Pythons are not currently listed as endangered, though habitat destruction and over-collection for the pet trade can impact wild populations. Captive breeding helps reduce pressure on wild populations.
Popularity in Captivity
- They are highly sought after by reptile enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and potential to produce a variety of morphs. They are suitable for intermediate to advanced keepers due to their specific care requirements and genetic considerations.
