Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was just wondering on what you consider the bare minimum ages to breed BP's, and what age you breed your own at,thanks.

Males in their first year are quite capable of mating and producing viable sperm, but it would be unwise to place such a young BP with an adult female if it is not of sufficient size to be able to lift the female's tail. A male of 500 gms which is producing sperm plugs should be capable. Females however, are a different kettle of fish. It is size and not specifically age that is important with females and you would be advised to wait until a female is a minimum weight of 1500 gms before breeding her. Hope this helps! Eric. Manchester UK.

thanks. This is strange, I too am from manchester UK! get in touch if you want

Go by weight rather than age. However, the rule is proper weight for the length of the snake. A 1.5 year old female may produce if weight is 1000-1200 grams, but expect a small clutch and/or poor fertility. 2.5 years of age and female approaching or exceeding 1500 grams is ideal.

2.5 years is the expected first breeding age for the majority of female ball pythons raised in captivity and kept under optimum conditions.