Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Do you often see ball pythons with black markings on their upper and lower labials? I had one like that hatch out this week, and couldn’t recall seeing it before – at least not with animals I’ve bred. But, then, I don’t much keep up with the various appearances.

Thanks for any info.

-Joan

I know that classic jungles use to have them. Do you have a pic of the BP?
Naara.net

It could be a Classic Jungle, if several other characteristics are present:

1) This is the most obvious. Classic Jungles have an extremely yellow coloration and a very busy pattern.

2) Upper half of the eye is gold/yellow, as if the gold stripe along its brow continues through the eye itself.

3) A distinct faded spot on top of the head. This should begin showing up after a few sheds, so pay attention. It will get lighter AND more distinct with each shed.

I think I got all of the important ones. You should check out the Sutherlands' site (ballpython.com), click on the "morphs" link. He has a very good description of the traits of a Classic Jungle, and few good pics of faded spot on the head and the black flecks on the upper lip.

Any clown ancestors? Pic please.

Nah, I don’t know from morphs! I just keep common-as-dirt normals. Didn’t want to post a photo because the only one I have showing the labials is out of focus. But what the heck, here you go. The orange coloration should disappear with the first shed. Ditto the white flecks down the spine?

-Joan

A little like the VPI spotnose.

Is this out of a normal looking pair you have been breeding for years with nothing like this? I guess weird things just happen some times. It will be interesting to see how it grows up.