Ball pythons don't brumate and you can actually kill them if you drop the temps too low. However, most breeders drop the temps during breeding time in order to trigger the breeding response and ovulation.

Here is one of the best breeding calendars out there with temperature info: http://www.8ballpythons.com/journal/...ngcalendar.htm

You do run the risk of an URI with the dropped temps so just keep and extra close eye on any symptoms. On another note, many people seem to breed successfully without dropping the temps at all so you might want to give that a shot.

As far as feeding, many snakes refuse to eat during the breeding cycle. If your snake is healthy and has a decent weight you shouldn't have to worry about them not eating for a few months during the breeding process.