Should I buy a male or a female?

[TB2Blazer]

I am a newby looking to educate myself as much as possible about the ball pythons before I actually buy one. I have spend countless hours in front of this computer reading every web page and most of the forums on them. The only question I have that has not been answered is whether to buy a male or a female ball python. I am looking to buy one in the next week or two so if anyone has any input I would greatly appreciate it.

[Alkaurkharim]

There really is no big difference between Male and Female temperment wise. However here are 2 things to consider:

1. Females tend to get about 1-2 feet longer and a bit more girthy then males.

2. Females also tend to be more expensive, as they are the ones that lay the eggs *I think thats why at least*

Other then that I don't think there is anything you need to know unless I'm mistaken.

[hhw]

Male ball pythons tend to stay smaller, in the 3-4' range, whereas females will get about 5-6'.

On the other hand, once you get past the hatchling stage, female balls tend to be more expensive, as they are more desirable for breeding purposes.

[Wizill]

hhw, you won't be seeing any 6 foot ball pythons.

the size difference isn't much at all. and females will rarely get over 5 feet in length, very rarely. i personally enjoy females more. males tend to be more high strung and also enjoy annoying their owners by not eating.

[Smulkin]

AMEN wizzy - you've hit that nail on the head lol.

[led4urhead]

both