Hi,
I’m back in the world of ball pythons after more than 10 years. The hobby/breeding is so crazy (good way) right now that it is intimidating.
I got a beautiful Super Gravel Lesser Pastel female (290g) a couple of weeks ago as a pet, but do not discard breeding her if it is worth it (not money-wise). I know that by the time she is ready for breeding, there will be another 1000 new morphs, but as of today, what are good morphs to pair her with?
Not a breeder myself, but I know that the experienced breeders often advise breeding for traits you enjoy and are passionate about, to reduce emotional burnout in the tough market.
A question that could help experienced breeders narrow their suggestions: are you wanting lighter snakes? Darker snakes? More or less pattern? Things like that will help guide what other people recommend.
Also, obligatory statement: the market is super oversaturated and babies aren’t garunteed to move well, especially with genes that are fairly common - i.e. be aware babies may not sell, and try to avoid pairings that can result in common single- or double-gene babies [I’m sure you know this, but its good to bring up]
EDIT: Forgot to mention, beautiful girl, I like her colors and faded pattern a lot!
It looks like you are already breeding from the rack I think I see? So you obviously know the pro’s and con’s of breeding, especially ball pythons. Your girl is absolutely lovely! I apologize that I can’t make suggestions but there are a number of people who can and will.
I just wanted to contribute my 2 cents and say good luck!
I understand. Honestly, in worst case scenario i can keep a clutch. But I have a friend who is interested in whatever I don’t want to keep. He goes around schools educating kids about pets, specifically reptiles. I love beautiful BP, patterns, lightness or darkness is not a big deal to me. I wish I could replicate BP like her. For example, I bought her because I love highways. But I’m open to suggestions.
You have super gravel there so I’d be pairing her to a male that at the least has the yellowbelly gene for a chance at making “highways”. Any color enhancing genes will help too so pastel, fire, orange dream, enchi, vanilla, blackhead, black pastel, etc. good luck!