Ball pythons earned their name because they curl into a ball to protect their important body parts, like their head, from perceived threats. They are commonly found in west and central Africa in grasslands and open forests, spending most of their time in underground burrows.

The typical ball python coloration is a lighter brown with dark, almost black, patterning that helps them blend into their surroundings. These non-venomous snakes are carnivores. As a constrictor species, they will squeeze their prey as a hunting technique. Like many snake species, ball pythons can act as a helpful pest control in the wild.

Ball pythons are a very popular animal in the pet trade industry which has negatively affected this species’ population.

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Our Current Resident

Hana

Hana came to ZooMontana from the Colorado Reptile Humane Society located in Longmont, Colorado in 2023. After moving to the Zoo as a 6-month-old, Hana has lived in the indoor education building, and her habitat is located next to the gift shop.
If you can’t see her, spend some time looking around her habitat! Oftentimes, she can be seen balled up in a comfortable hiding place. You can get to know Hana better and interact with her in person through the Zoo’s educational programs.

Birthday: Hatched January 21, 2023 (estimated and celebrated)