All hatchlings and young snakes seem to have more vibrant coloration than the adults, as adults usually fade with age. Such as Pastels and Axanthics of lower quality usually fade quickly as they age. Higher quality animals normally keep their colors for much longer. Although I have never seen, for example, pictures of a particular high quality Bee as a hatchling and as a 10+ year adult. But I have definitely noticed a fade in pattern whether it's light or dark mostly with older snakes. My first Ball as a hatchling was bright brown and now over three years later she's probably my darkest Ball so far.