Okay, this is really wierd....

[otniel01]

well, i've never sexed a ball python and dont know how.....but near the ball python private area, there appears to be 2 claw like objects poking through the skin identically on each side, is this normal>???? i've never noticed this btw

[lord jackel]

well, i've never sexed a ball python and dont know how.....but near the ball python private area, there appears to be 2 claw like objects poking through the skin identically on each side, is this normal>???? i've never noticed this btw

yes...they are called spurs and all BP have them (regardless of sex) they are what is left over after evolution removed their legs.

[MelissaFlipski]

Lord Jackal is right. Snakes that evolved from lizards longer ago have these remnants. The males have larger ones and massage the female with them. They are very cool!

[frankykeno]

My understanding has always been that the size of the spurs really isn't a good or reliable indication of gender. Some females have quite prominent spurs, some males don't have a lot of spur size going on.

The best way to be sure what you've got is have a herp vet, a breeder or an experienced hobbyist either pop or probe your snake.

[otniel01]

ohhh, ok thanks soo much i was worried, i thought they were some transparent bug (LOL) or my snake had been peirced by something that looked like a claw?? hehe, the wierd things i come up with