Breeding weights

[johnfin]

Is there a general rule of thumb for the breeding weight of a male BP.

[shaneswife828]

I believe there is no specific weight. If it is producing plugs and you put him in with a female and he doesn't lose weight you are good to go. If he loses weight pull him

[Galaxygirl]

To add to this, is it uncommon for males to breed under one year of age? A question I've been wanting to ask for a while. I'm curious as to whether weight affects if a male will breed or not, or if it has to do more with the age of him?

[Stewart_Reptiles]

Your male need to produce sperm plugs, they can breed at a low weight however needs to be monitored, you do not want to breed you male to death.

Based on my experience over the years my best breeders were at least 650 grams (never been one with much luck with smaller male)

Also keep in mind that even if ready it does not mean that the male will show interest.

[bondo]

To add to this, is it uncommon for males to breed under one year of age? A question I've been wanting to ask for a while. I'm curious as to whether weight affects if a male will breed or not, or if it has to do more with the age of him?

They will breed young. They don't always though. Some take to it well some not so much. I go by weight on males not age. However I have a backup for the young ones because you never know.

[bondo]

Ball pythons don't actually produce sperm plugs. I never pop and use that as an indication that a male is ready to breed. I go by size and pretty much that is it. If you are a new breeder I would say you should not even consider going with a male under 600 grams. Will they breed smaller? They sure will. However you really need to watch them and pull them in a hurry if they aren't eating.