just realized my new snake has a "pattern" on her belly and most ball pythons I see don't. does this mean she might be special or is this still normal?

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just realized my new snake has a "pattern" on her belly and most ball pythons I see don't. does this mean she might be special or is this still normal?

and healthy looking! The best part about normals is they are far more variable than we all give them credit for.

Now that's a cute ball python!!!
A lot of people seem to be paying very close attention to belly patterns lately (yours looks more patterned then usual, but still within the range of 'normal') In some cases this is justified, but it is rarely the ONLY telltale in an animal that could have interesting genes. Unfortunatly it's often also being used by some of the more unscrupulous elements in this hobby to sell otherwise 'average' animals for a premium price. If you think that the belly pattern of your snake is extra special and an indicator of a hidden special trait, the ONLY way to know for sure is to line breed it and see what you end up with. This is whats known by some of the more savvy and succesful breeders as a 'dinking around project' It can take many years if ever to see fruition, but it can be a lot of fun in the process. And thats mainly the reason to try - to have fun.
Good luck
VOT
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