63 Stunning Ball Python Morphs (Our Favorite Types)

If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide on ball python morphs then you’ve come to the right place. We understand that since there are hundreds of different colors and types out there, it can be hard to know where to start!

This guide lists all of our favourite morphs — species we’ve researched extensively and that our team has kept and bred — to make your research process as easy as possible. No matter what your preference is, there will be one for you!

Last updated: March 2026

Quick Reference: All 63 Ball Python Morphs at a Glance

Use this table to quickly compare all morphs by genetics type, rarity, and approximate price before diving into the full entries and photos below. Prices reflect current captive-bred market ranges and will vary by breeder, age, and quality.

Morph	Genetics	Rarity	Approx. Price	Key Visual
Banana	Codominant	Common	$50–$200	Vibrant yellow patches on tan
Albino	Recessive	Common	$50–$150	Yellow & white, red eyes
Spider	Dominant	Common	$50–$150	Thin spider-web banding
Piebald	Recessive	Common	$200–$500	White body with colour patches
Pastel / Super Pastel	Codominant	Common	$50–$150	Muted browns, pale green eyes
Axanthic	Recessive	Uncommon	$150–$400	Grey, silver & black, no yellow
Mojave	Codominant	Common	$75–$200	High contrast, keyhole markings
White	Designer	Rare	$300–$700	Pure white, black eyes
Scaleless	Recessive	Rare	$500–$2,000	No scales, wrinkled skin
Pinstripe	Dominant	Common	$75–$200	Copper body, thin dorsal stripe
Cinnamon / Super Cinnamon	Codominant	Common	$50–$150	Rich reddish-brown, bronze rings
Clown	Recessive	Uncommon	$200–$600	Dorsal stripe, teardrop face marks
Bumblebee	Designer	Common	$100–$300	Yellow & white, black stripes
Stormtrooper	Unknown	Very Rare	$2,000+	White with black bands
Enchi	Codominant	Common	$75–$200	Orange-yellow tint throughout
Lavender Albino	Recessive	Rare	$400–$1,500	Lavender base, yellow patches, red eyes
Black Pastel	Codominant	Common	$75–$200	Dusty black, shadowy grey
Lesser	Codominant	Common	$75–$200	Washed-out brown, dusty yellow belly
Black	Dominant	Uncommon	$150–$400	Unbroken black dorsal stripe
Ghost	Recessive	Common	$75–$200	Washed-out, reduced pigment
Sunset	Recessive	Very Rare	$1,000+	Deep auburn-red throughout
Fire / Super Fire	Codominant	Common	$75–$200	Coffee brown, thick tan bands
Mystic	Codominant	Uncommon	$150–$400	Dark to lavender-grey with age
Acid	Dominant	Rare	$500–$1,500	Black top, yellow belly with zipper pattern
Pewter	Designer	Common	$100–$250	Hazy tan, mocha dorsal stripe
Butter	Codominant	Common	$75–$200	Tan base, cream-yellow circular marks
Champagne / Puma	Dominant	Uncommon	$150–$400	Patternless champagne gradient
Lemon Blast	Designer	Common	$150–$350	Cool tan, black & white linear markings
Ghi	Codominant	Uncommon	$150–$400	Black base, orange-brown splotches
Coral Glow	Codominant	Uncommon	$150–$400	Dark lavender, vivid yellow-orange rings
Yellow Belly	Codominant	Common	$50–$150	Deeper colour saturation, yellow scutes
Dreamsicle	Designer	Very Rare	$1,000–$5,000	White-pink body, pastel clouds
Ivory	Designer	Uncommon	$200–$500	Creamy white, yellow dorsal stripe
Highway	Designer	Uncommon	$200–$500	Copper-brown, broken yellow spinal stripe
Purple Passion	Designer	Rare	$400–$1,000	Lavender-pink, cream dorsal stripe
Spotnose	Dominant	Uncommon	$150–$350	Nose spots, pale tan with soft markings
Chocolate	Codominant	Common	$75–$200	Dark chocolate base, caramel keyholes
Vanilla	Codominant	Uncommon	$150–$350	Creamy base, clear spinal lane
Candino	Designer	Rare	$500–$1,500	Dark lavender, vibrant yellow patterns
Woma	Dominant	Uncommon	$200–$500	Brown with dark banding, woma-style
Phantom	Codominant	Common	$75–$200	Near-black base, 3D-effect markings
Candy	Recessive	Rare	$400–$1,500	Albino at birth, deepens to lavender-grey
Red	Uncertain	Uncommon	$100–$300	Standard pattern with copper-red tones
Tiger	Designer	Uncommon	$150–$400	Yellow base, dark crossbands
Super Blast	Designer	Common	$150–$350	Pastel yellow, thin black web lines
Ringer	Anomaly	Uncommon	$200–$500	Normal pattern, white tail patch
Mota	Unknown	Rare	$500+	Black base, golden alien-head patches
Blue-Eyed Leucistic	Designer	Rare	$400–$1,500	White body, vivid blue eyes
Congo	Locale	Uncommon	$150–$350	Pale brown, white-bordered splotches
Goblin	Designer	Rare	$400–$1,000	Nude-pink, faint face mask, yellow stripe
Satin	Codominant	Uncommon	$200–$500	Saturated black, golden highlights
Joppa	Unknown	Rare	$400+	Standard pattern, deeper & cleaner
Hydra	Codominant	Uncommon	$200–$500	Distorted, sporadic saddle placement
Citron	Unknown	Uncommon	$200–$400	Yellow accents on head, neck & tail
Lemonback	Unknown	Uncommon	$200–$400	Black base, vivid yellow spinal stripe
Web	Unknown	Uncommon	$200–$400	Yellow-tan solid patches on black
Ajax	Unknown	Uncommon	$200–$400	Uniform alien-head patterns
Sauce	Unknown	Uncommon	$200–$400	Defined head markings, muddy mid-body
Trident	Codominant	Uncommon	$200–$400	Black base, faded semi-transparent marks
Fire Ivory	Designer	Rare	$500–$1,500	Cream or lavender, faint honeycomb patches
Bongo Pastel	Designer	Uncommon	$200–$500	Purple at hatch, black & yellow as adult
Razor	Unknown	Rare	$400+	Yellowish tan, lateral spider lines
Zuwadi	Unknown	Rare	$400+	Faded black, yellow rings, thick spinal band

Banana

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $50–$200  |  Key look: Vibrant yellow patches on tan base

Banana ball pythons are relatively new. The first clutch hit the scene in 2003 and sold for several thousand dollars! 

The beauty of this morph knows no bounds. Snakes are covered in large patches of vibrant banana yellow. The patches sit against a base tan color, which helps the color stand out even more.

Some specimens also have flecks of black that adorn the tan parts, creating a nice visual interest that makes this ball python morph in high demand.

Albino

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $50–$150  |  Key look: Yellow & white scales, unmistakable red eyes

Also known as amelanistic, albino ball pythons are one of the most prevalent ball python morphs out there. The morph was first established sometime around 1992. The rest is history!

Albino ball pythons lack melanin, which means that they cannot produce black, brown, red, or orange pigment in the scales. These snakes have the same patterns as common ball pythons. But, the brown coloration is swapped with vibrant yellow and white.

These snakes also have unmistakable red eyes that stand out against the light tones of the skin. Interestingly enough, albinism is a recessive mutation. New snakes will only have this coloration if both parents are albino ball pythons as well.

Spider

Genetics: Dominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $50–$150  |  Key look: Thin web-like banding on light tan

Spider ball pythons are aptly named for the thin brown or black markings that adorn the body. Usually lighter in color than ball pythons you usually see, the primary color is tan or light brown. This color fades to a lighter color at the spine and to nearly white towards the belly.

The large chunks of tan are separated only by thin bands of black or brown. The bands create a distinct pattern that spreads all the way to the head. It looks like the legs of a spider!

Piebald

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $200–$500  |  Key look: Pure white body with coloured saddle patches

Piebald ball pythons are, perhaps, one of the more exciting ball python colors out there. First established in 1997, these snakes look like two snakes melded into one!

Most of the body is pure white or cream-colored. However, large patches of standard coloration dot the snake’s body. The colored patches are your standard fare.

You have swathes of brown, tan, and black. Interestingly enough, almost all piebalds have a standard-colored head.

Pastel aka Super Pastel

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $50–$150  |  Key look: Muted blushed browns, pale green eyes

Pastel snakes are gorgeous and feature slightly subdued coloration. The standard dark brown patches are replaced with blushing brown. It’s much lighter and transitions to almost pure white at the belly.

The dark parts stand out quite a bit, creating a one-of-a-kind look that’s quite popular among collectors.

Even the head has some interesting details. These snakes have pale green eyes and white lips.

When two Pastels breed, the offspring are known as “super pastel.” They feature a hazy purple body and even more subdued coloration throughout.

Axanthic

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$400  |  Key look: Grey, silver & black — no red or yellow pigment

Axanthic ball pythons are like the close cousins of albino ball pythons. Albino snakes cannot produce black, brown, red, and orange pigments in their scales. However, Axanthic pythons can’t produce red and yellow.

This lack of color vibrancy results in a high-contrast snake with some eye-catching coloration. The patterns are similar to the common ball python look. However, the tans and browns are much darker.

These snakes feature patches of gray, black, and silver. The brown coloration is colder and more subtle, eliminating the warm browns that most are used to.

Mojave

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: High contrast dark base, keyhole markings with white accents

Mojave ball pythons are easy to mistake as common types of ball pythons. However, there are a few key differences here.

The first is the pattern itself. The patches contain a single keyhole marking. Plus, the edges are flamed to create a more natural appearance.

In terms of color, mojave ball pythons are high-contrast. They have a base of dark brown or bluish-black. The base is complemented by brighter shades of tan. White accents line the bold color patches, resulting in a look that resembles old Native American textiles.

White

Genetics: Designer (multi-gene)  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $300–$700  |  Key look: Pure snow-white body, jet-black eyes

This one is pretty self-explanatory! White ball pythons are as white as the driven snow!

This cool morph was discovered by accident in 2007 and has quickly become one of the most sought-after morphs in the herpetology community. It’s not hard to see why.

The pure white body stands out against natural decor. They lack skin pigment and are sporting pure black eyes. Sometimes, you might see them labeled as “White Wedding” ball pythons.

Scaleless

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $500–$2,000  |  Key look: No scales — wrinkled smooth skin with high colour contrast

Here’s an interesting ball python morph. Scaleless ball pythons are exactly what they sound like. They lack scales like standard snakes! Instead, they have wrinkly skin.

In terms of color, there’s a lot of variety out there. Most have the standard brown, tan, and black color pattern. But, the lack of scales gives the traditional color a brand-new appeal. It offers more contrast, which makes it look unique.

Despite the name, scaleless ball pythons do have some scales. All specimens have scutes on their belly so that they can get around without injury. Some snakes will also have patches of scales here and there throughout the body.

Pinstripe

Genetics: Dominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Copper body with thin dorsal stripe, minimal pattern

Pinstripe ball pythons are relatively simple-looking when it comes to patterns. Most are devoid of distinct shapes. The only element that stands out is a thin stripe that runs along the spine. 

You might also see lateral lines that run perpendicular to the spine. But even those are thin and simple. The rest of the body is usually copper-colored.

Pinstripe ball pythons are very popular with breeders. They’re frequently used for selective breeding by those who want to create new ball python morphs by reducing that thin stripe even more.

Cinnamon aka Super Cinnamon

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $50–$150  |  Key look: Rich reddish-brown base, bronze rings; Super Cinnamon is near-solid brown

If you see a cinnamon ball python at the pet store, you probably wouldn’t think much of it! They look pretty simple and have the same patterns as a common ball python. The only difference is a slightly darker base color.

The main color is reddish-brown. Bronze-colored rings run the length of the snake, giving it some mysterious appeal.

Now, if you breed two cinnamon ball pythons, you get a super cinnamon morph!

This ball python morph is a head-turner. The snakes are nearly solid and take on a rich brown color.

Clown

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$600  |  Key look: Dorsal stripe, teardrop face markings, copper tones

Discovered in 1999, clown ball pythons have a recessive mutation that affects both color and pattern. Most snakes have a base color of tan and brown. Coppery undertones help the color stand out.

On top of the base color, clowns have sporadic striping and spots of black. A wide dorsal stripe runs the length of the snake while dots line the sides.

On the head, patches of light and dark color create a unique appearance. The color morph gets its name from some of the dark-colored patches, which sometimes create a teardrop-shaped stain below the eyes.

Bumblebee

Genetics: Designer (Pastel × Spider)  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $100–$300  |  Key look: Yellow & white patches, thin black bee-stripe markings

Bumblebees are one of the coolest and most colorful ball python morphs. They were created by cross-breeding pastel and spider morphs. As a result, you have eye-catching colors and an intricate pattern.

The base color is usually tan. But, the tan color is paired with spots of white and large patches of bright yellow. The white, yellow, and tan combination create an attractive color gradient.

On top of that, the snake has thin black stripes and sporadic spotting. The stripes resemble the markings on a bumblebee, which is how the morph gets its name.

Stormtrooper

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Very Rare  |  Price: $2,000+  |  Key look: Near-pure white with variable black banding

Stormtrooper ball pythons are lovingly named after the iconic Star Wars characters. This is a newer ball python color morph that was created by accident in 2015. Because it’s so new, breeders don’t have full control over it just yet.

Thus, stormtroopers are rare and highly sought-after.

As you can probably guess, these snakes are almost pure white. The only exception to the white coloration is bands of black. The bands can vary in thickness, creating a signature look that matches the stormtrooper motif to a tee.

Enchi

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Orange-yellow tint over standard pattern

The enchi color morph is a more colorful variation of the standard pattern. These snakes have similar rounded patches throughout the body. But, the color has a noticeably yellow tinge.

Most of the body takes on an orange-yellow tint. Lateral bands and some random brown spotting runs the length of the snake.

On the head, enchi ball pythons have a single circular patch of brown. It complements the stripes that cross over the eyes.

Lavender Albino

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $400–$1,500  |  Key look: Lavender-purple base, vivid yellow patches, red eyes

Lavender albino snakes are very rare. They look very similar to the standard albino ball python. However, these snakes came to be from cross-breeding albinos with lavenders.

Instead of the white or light tan base color, these snakes have a slightly purplish hue. It offers a stark contrast to the vivid yellow patches.

Like other albino ball pythons, these snakes have piercing red eyes.

Black Pastel

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Dusty black & shadowy grey tones, ring patterns on sides

A black pastel ball python features cooler tones. It lacks the warm browns as other ball python color morphs, creating a subdued look that owners love.

Most of the body features shades of dusty black, shadowy gray, and ashy brown. You may notice distinct ring patterns along the sides of the snake. The belly is usually white or gray in color.

When two black pastels are bred, the resulting offspring are “super black.” The color pattern becomes more faint, resulting in a solid-looking snake.

Lesser

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Washed-out blushed brown, yellow balloon splotches, dusty yellow belly

When the lesser ball python first hit the market, it was selling for tens of thousands of dollars. Back then, it was the byproduct of innovation!

The coloration is soft and delicate. The standard brown is blushed out, creating a somewhat washed-out appearance. This color joins yellow balloon-shaped splotches on the side.

The belly and spine are much lighter in color, resulting in a gorgeous dusty yellow appearance. Lesser ball pythons are much more common today, so you can easily get your hands on one at an affordable price.

Black

Genetics: Dominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$400  |  Key look: Standard pattern with unbroken black dorsal stripe

Sometimes referred to as black-backed ball pythons, these snakes look pretty similar to the standard coloration. But if you look closely, you’ll notice a long stripe on their backs.

This black stripe runs parallel to the spine and usually runs unbroken through the snake’s entire length. It’s a subtle detail that’s harder to replicate than one would think.

These snakes have a dominant gene that’s only inherited by about half of their offspring. It’s difficult for breeders to isolate, making black ball pythons pretty rare.

Ghost

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Washed-out, dusty appearance with reduced pigment throughout

Ghost ball python morphs are another variant that doesn’t look too different from standard snakes. But, they have a very important gene mutation. These snakes have reduced coloration.

That means that they have fewer brown, black, red, and yellow pigments. All of those pigments are responsible for creating the signature ball python coloration. So, these snakes look washed-out.

The colors are duller. The tan, yellow, and brown hues are much lighter, resulting in a dusty-looking snake that owners can get enough of.

Sunset

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Very Rare  |  Price: $1,000+  |  Key look: Deep auburn-red throughout, most intense on the head

The sunset ball python is a real beauty. First established in 2012, the first specimen sold for about 70 grand! When you see these snakes in person, it’s not hard to understand why they are in high demand.

The snakes are like no other. This ball python morph features a rich auburn-red color. It’s most prevalent on the head. However, it stretches along the entire body and shines on the empty white of the snake’s belly.

More intense coloration highlights the snake’s color pattern.

Fire aka Super Fire

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Rich coffee brown with thick tan bands; Super Fire is white with tan spine

Fire morphs first came to be around 1995. They have a codominant gene that results in thick banding.

The base color is a rich coffee brown. On the top of that, you’ll find thick bands of rich tan. The bands can wrap around the entire body. However, most will stop around the spine, allowing the coffee-brown color to weave around the body.

Breeding this snake even further results in a super fire ball python. Super fires are usually white and have subtle shades of tan or yellow around the spine.

Mystic

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$400  |  Key look: Born dark brown, fades to cool lavender-grey with age

The mystic color morph is another rare variation that is in high demand. The interesting thing about these snakes is that they only get better with age. Their coloration becomes even more subdued, resulting in a distinct finish.

When first born, mystic ball pythons are dark brown. But, this color fades to a cool tan. As they get older, the color transitions even more to lavender gray.

Blushing pinstripe banding and keyhole blotch patterns adorn the back for some unique visual interest.

Acid

Genetics: Dominant  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $500–$1,500  |  Key look: Dark top with golden spots; yellow belly with signature zipper-black pattern

Acid ball pythons look pretty common from above. They have a base color of dark brown or black. Meanwhile, golden spots break up the dark hues to create a meandering pattern that pops!

If you’re lucky enough to see the snake’s belly, you’ll see what makes the morph so cool. The belly is predominantly yellow. But, a zipper-like black accent runs along the entire body. 

It creates a shattered glass effect that you can’t help but appreciate.

Pewter

Genetics: Designer (Cinnamon × Pastel)  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $100–$250  |  Key look: Hazy tan base, mocha dorsal stripe, 3D shadowed keyhole patterns

Pewter ball pythons are a byproduct of cross-breeding cinnamon and pastel morphs. 

Overall, pewter snakes are soft and hazy-looking. The color isn’t as saturated, which creates a cool effect.

The base color is tan. A thick stripe of darker mocha brown runs along the spine. 

Meanwhile, keyhole patterns and random spots adorn the sides. Each patterned patch is shadowed by dark brown or black, creating a three-dimensional effect.

Butter

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Tan base with cream-yellow circular marks, caramel shadowing

Butter ball pythons are revered for their striking coloration. These snakes are a relatively basic color morph. But they’re in high demand either way.

Most of the snake is covered in a tan color. Like most ball python morphs, the tan is darker towards the top of the body and gradually fades to a lighter hue at the belly.

The most interesting feature of this type of ball python is the cream-yellow markings. Resembling circular patches, the marks feature crisp white highlights and caramel-brown shadowing.

Champagne aka Puma

Genetics: Dominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$400  |  Key look: Virtually patternless, smooth champagne gradient with subtle spine stripe

Check out this gorgeous color morph! Champagne ball pythons do not have a visible pattern. If they do, it’s super faint and barely noticeable at all.

Instead of a pattern, they feature a brown gradient. The gradient transitions to a smooth champagne color towards the belly.

On top, these snakes often have a light stripe of brown on the spine. Sometimes, the stripe is flanked by subtle shading and dark splotches.

Lemon Blast

Genetics: Designer (Pastel × Pinstripe)  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $150–$350  |  Key look: Cool muted tan, black & white linear map-like markings

Here’s a pricier ball python color morph with tons of visual interest to appreciate. While they look distinct, these snakes are actually the offspring of codominant pastel snakes and pinstripe snakes. If you look closely, you can see key features from both.

Overall, the snake is more muted in color. It gets this trait from the pastel parent. The color is subdued and cool, eliminating any high color saturation.

The only exception is some subtle sunset orange hues on the back. Most of the snake is cool tan with a gradual transition to a white belly.

The standout feature, of course, is the linear ornaments of black and white. They run along the back to create a map-like appearance.

Ghi

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$400  |  Key look: Near-black top, striking orange-brown splotches, silver flaming

The ghi ball python is a dark snake with a mysterious edge. Most of the upper body is black or dark brown. The base color fades to a lighter gray around the belly. 

On top of the dark color is orange-brown splotching. The randomized patterns offer a striking contrast over the base color and create a distinct look that’s unmistakable.

If you look closely, you may also see some silver flaming between the splotches near the belly. They highlight the organic shapes.

Coral Glow

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$400  |  Key look: Dark lavender with black flecks, vivid yellow-orange rings

Here’s a color morph that looks out-of-this-world beautiful. It’s a rare hypomelanistic color morph that some refer to as “white smoke.”

The base color is dark lavender. It has low color saturation and sports random black flecks throughout.

On top of that static-like base, you’ll find large rings of yellowish-orange. They are quite vibrant, standing out against the lavender base. The rings transform into thick bands around the head, creating a perfect outline for this gorgeous snake.

Yellow Belly

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $50–$150  |  Key look: Standard pattern with deeper saturation, yellow-tinted scutes

Yellow bellies are another ball python morph many people don’t realize they’ve seen before. It’s very similar to the common coloration of most ball pythons. As a result, it’s difficult to spot and identify.

The only real difference is the color intensity. Yellow belly balls have deeper color saturation, resulting in more intense blacks and browns.

The morph gets its name from the yellowish tinge on the belly. The scales are yellowed, which goes well with the speckled pattern on the border of the scutes.

Dreamsicle

Genetics: Designer (Albino × Lavender × Piebald)  |  Rarity: Very Rare  |  Price: $1,000–$5,000  |  Key look: White-pink body with low-saturation pastel cloud patches

With the whimsical name comes an even more magical appearance. Dreamsicle ball pythons are some of the most beautiful around.

The body is usually white or pinkish. Random low-saturation clouds scatter the body, creating a look that resembles the sweet treat.

Dreamsicles are rare to come by. They are a product of breeding albino, lavender, and piebald snakes. All of these morphs are recessive, so it often takes several generations to get right.

Ivory

Genetics: Designer (Super Yellow Belly)  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$500  |  Key look: Creamy white with yellow dorsal stripe, lavender head blushing

Clad in creamy white, ivory ball pythons are also pretty hard to come by. Breeders create these snakes from double recessive yellow belly ball pythons.

Newborns are highly variable, so consider yourself lucky if you get your hands on a pure ivory-colored snake.

This ball python morph does have some subtle detailing. Most have a yellow stripe that runs down the back. Meanwhile, lavender-colored blushing around the head complements the jet-black eyes.

Highway

Genetics: Designer (Yellow Belly × Gravel)  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$500  |  Key look: Copper-grey base, bright broken yellow spinal stripe

Highway ball pythons are pretty easy to identify once you know what to look for. Interestingly enough, this type is highly variable.

Most have a base color of coppery brown or gray-brown. But, you might see some variation in the pattern. 

Some specimens are solid and patternless. Others have sporadic rings with no rhyme or reason.

But one thing that identifies this morph is the bright yellow stripe that runs on the back. It’s a broken stripe that resembles the lines on a highway.

Purple Passion

Genetics: Designer (Mojave × Phantom)  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $400–$1,000  |  Key look: Lavender-pink body, creamy white dorsal stripe

Purple passions offer a breathtaking aesthetic that stands out. 

They have a base color that’s lavender-pink. Most are solid-colored. However, you might see purple passion ball pythons with some faint circular spots, too.

On top of that purple color is a creamy white stripe. Following the spine, it offers a beautiful contrast to the cool tones of the base color.

These snakes are the result of breeding mojave and phantom ball pythons.

Spotnose

Genetics: Dominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$350  |  Key look: Nose spots, pale tan with soft tribal-like markings

The spotnose ball python is lovingly named after the spots on its face. These snakes feature two distinct rounded spots of brown on either side of the nostril.

The polka dots continue on the rest of the body, too. Most of the snake is pale tan or creamy white. However, soft brown markings create an almost tribal pattern.

It’s a mix of organic shapes and imperfect dots that manage to create a beautifully cohesive look.

Chocolate

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Dark chocolate base, caramel keyhole patches with white highlights

This ball python color morph was first recognized in 1999 and continued to be quite popular within the herpetology community.

The chocolate ball python has a base color of dark brown. The shade resembled dark chocolate, hence its name. The pattern is limited, allowing the base to shine through.

On top of it, you’ll find caramel-colored keyhole patches and rings. Subtle white highlighting makes the shapes pop even more than they already do against the dark backdrop.

Vanilla

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$350  |  Key look: Creamy vanilla base, uninterrupted white spinal lane

The vanilla ball python is the antithesis of the chocolate variant! Whereas the chocolate is dark and moody, this one is light-colored and looks lively.

As you can guess, the base color mimics that of creamy vanilla ice cream. Spots of black adorn the blushed tan color, further cementing the vanilla ice cream connection.

Slightly darker markings cover the sides. They are tan-colored and stand out nicely against the cream base.

Interestingly enough, the pattern steers clear of the spine. As a result, most snakes have a nearly uninterrupted line of cream white on their back.

Candino

Genetics: Designer (Albino × Candy)  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $500–$1,500  |  Key look: Dark lavender-grey base with vibrant yellow patterns

Here’s a true designer type of ball python that many collectors would kill to own! These guys are lovely and quite rare. There’s a nearly zero percent chance that they can occur in the wild, so your only chance to get one is from a breeder who specializes in the morph.

They are a mix of albino and candy ball pythons.

The background color is dark lavender gray. On top of that, you’ll find the signature ball python patterns in vibrant yellow!

Woma

Genetics: Dominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$500  |  Key look: Brown base with woma-style dark crossbanding

Contrary to what the name might tell you, these snakes are not a type of woma python! However, they do have a similar banding pattern to the woma.

Most of the morph is brown. Large bands of black or dark brown separate the chunks of brown. Towards the spine, the brown lightens to a soft tan.

Woma ball pythons are rare. Clutches are pretty unpredictable, and super womas are unstable from a health standpoint.

Phantom

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $75–$200  |  Key look: Near-black base, 3D-effect markings with precise cutouts

Phantom ball pythons are loved for their codominant traits. They’re often used by breeders to create some visually stunning color morphs.

As the name would imply, phantoms are much darker than your average ball python. The base color is almost black. That color lightens a bit towards the white belly.

Several distinct shapes line the body. These shapes feature a spectrum of color. Standout highlights, subtle shading, and precisely shaped cutouts make the figures look almost three-dimensional, only adding to the morph’s beauty.

Candy

Genetics: Recessive  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $400–$1,500  |  Key look: Albino-like at birth, deepens to lavender-grey with age

This color morph is captivating! It doesn’t have any of the natural brown colors of common ball pythons. Instead, it favors the look of an albino crossed with a toffee ball python morph.

At birth, candy ball pythons look nearly identical to albino ball pythons. But, their physical appearance changes as they get older.

Over time, the base color transports to a deep lavender-gray color. The patterns remain unchanged, putting the eye-catching contrast on full blast!

Red

Genetics: Uncertain  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $100–$300  |  Key look: Standard pattern with warm copper-red undertones

Despite what the name would lead you to believe, these ball pythons are not truly red. However, they do have reddish undertones. The red color morph is basic.

They look the same as standard ball pythons. The only difference is the noticeable red tinge. Copper-colored hues stand out, creating a distinct appearance.

Many breeders utilize the genes of the red ball python to manipulate colors more strategically when creating various ball python breeds. They can intensify the color of future generations, resulting in some awe-inspiring creations.

Tiger

Genetics: Designer (Enchi × Desert)  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$400  |  Key look: Yellow-orange base with random dark crossbands

This ball python morph also goes by the name “desert echni.” They are a cross between the echni color morph and the desert color morph. Together the genes from those two snakes create a high-contrast offspring with tons of color.

These snakes are predominantly yellow. Though, the yellow coloration darkens to a deeper orange as they get older.

Accompanying the base color is dark brown or black bands. They cross randomly all over the body like the stripes on a tiger.

Super Blast

Genetics: Designer (Super Pastel × Pinstripe)  |  Rarity: Common  |  Price: $150–$350  |  Key look: Hazy pastel yellow with thin black web-like lines

This type of ball python was created by combining the genes of a super pastel snake and a pinstripe snake. Super blasts are gorgeous and foreboding. They have a somewhat sinister look that resembles cracked artwork!

The base color is pastel yellow. It’s hazy and diluted, which only pushes the aged look even more.

On top of the base color are thin spider-like lines of black. Some lines run along the spine while others reach towards the belly. Typically, the head features darker splotches of brown or black.

Ringer

Genetics: Anomaly (recessive pied genes present)  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$500  |  Key look: Normal pattern with small white patch near the tail

Ringer ball pythons are a unique occurrence. Breeders will take full advantage of these snakes when they appear, which happens randomly.

Most are born from standard ball python parents, making them an anomaly.

They look very similar to normal balls. But, they have a small patch of white near the tail. This indicates that the snake has recessive pied genes.

The “pied” section is usually pretty small and doesn’t occur anywhere else on the body. It doesn’t mean that the snake’s offspring will be pied. But, it does show that the snake does have pied genetics.

Mota

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $500+  |  Key look: Black base, golden-brown alien-head patches with tan borders

The mota color morph is ornate and breathtaking. Like other ball python color variants, it has a dark base color of black. The black covers most of the body and creates the perfect backdrop for the unique pattern.

These snakes feature golden-brown patches surrounded by a light tan border. The patches have the “alien-head” shape. They’re oblong and feature three holes, which some say look like the alien’s mouth and nose.

The pattern fades into the belly. It’s pretty consistent along the length of the snake, which is rare.

Blue-Eyed Leucistic

Genetics: Designer (5-gene complex)  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $400–$1,500  |  Key look: Pinkish-white body, vivid blue eyes, pink dorsal stripe

Sometimes called BEL for short, the blue-eyed leucistic is a rare commodity. They don’t occur in the wild. Not only that, but they’re difficult to breed.

That’s because they contain genes from a whopping five different color morphs! It can take up to four generations to create a single BEL. However, that work is well worth the end product.

Blue-eyed leucistic ball pythons lack skin pigment. They are often pinkish-white and sport a subtle pink stripe along the back. The eyes are a gorgeous shade of dark blue.

Congo

Genetics: Locale variant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $150–$350  |  Key look: Pale muted brown with white-bordered splotches

The congo ball python is a pale morph. It’s pretty similar to the standard snake coloration. However, it features lighter coloration throughout.

Like most ball pythons, it features a dark base color of black and several random patches of light brown. Many of the patches feature the “alien-head” shape or have circular holes.

The brown is quite pale. It’s more subdued compared to other common ball python morphs. The paleness stands out beautifully against the darker base color. 

Not only that, but the splotches have bright white borders that act as highlights. White accents like the exterior of each shape, creating a three-dimensional effect.

Goblin

Genetics: Designer  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $400–$1,000  |  Key look: Nude-pink body, faint face mask markings, yellow spinal stripe

Check out this beauty! The goblin ball python is a unique leucistic variant that doesn’t have much pigmentation. Most of the snake is nude-colored with a slight tinge of pink.

The only exception is around the head. Subtle dark markings around the face create its goblin-like appearance. The mask is faded and extremely faint.

It doesn’t stand out as much as some other facial markings you will see in the ball python world. But, it’s extreme enough to stand out against the rest of the body.

Goblin ball pythons also have a stripe of yellow that runs along the spine. It’s quite understated. Against the creamy nude hue of the body, it offers a muted accent.

Satin

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$500  |  Key look: Deep saturated black, golden-highlighted patches

Take one look at this color morph, and you’ll see why they call it the satin ball python. Its beauty rivals the most delicate silk sheets you’ve ever seen!

The base color of this snake is dark black. It’s pretty saturated, looking darker than what you’d see on a standard ball python.

Adorning the black base are patches of brown, white, and tan. The patterns run on the snake’s side, creating the signature “alien-head” look that you see with other ball python morphs. 

The cool thing here, however, is that the browns and tans look almost golden. The white highlighting certainly helps to sell the effect.

Joppa

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $400+  |  Key look: Standard pattern with deeper saturation and cleaner, uniform saddles

Joppa ball pythons are a newer variant. Breeders don’t know much about it just yet and are still figuring things out. For example, we’re still not sure if it’s a dominant or codominant ball python morph.

Whatever the case may be, this snake has only subtle differences. Breeders like to say that it takes the beauty of the standard ball python coloration and improves it.

The colors are deeper and more saturated. Meanwhile, the saddle markings are cleaner. These snakes don’t have “alien-head” markings. Instead, the patches are clean and nearly uniform.

Hydra

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$500  |  Key look: Sporadic, distorted saddle placement across the full body

The hydra color morph was established in 2013. It’s another “blink and you’ll miss it” color. These snakes look like your average ball python. However, small differences become more apparent the closer you’ll look.

Breeders consider this morph a “pattern manipulator.” That means that the major differences are the appearance of the saddles and markings.

They are more sporadic with this morph. The face-like markings appear on the back, sides, and every in-between. They’re not limited to the sides. Plus, they are distorted to create a unique shape.

Citron

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$400  |  Key look: Dark brown standard pattern with bright yellow head, neck & tail accents

The citron ball python’s most noticeable feature is the yellow markings.

At face value, it has similar features to the standard. It’s sporting a dark brown backdrop, lighter brown markings, and some white flashing towards the belly.

However, brighter yellow markings on the top and tail make this snake stand out. Towards the tail, these snakes feature a uniform stripe. Similar markings reside on both sides of the head and on the neck, too.

Lemonback

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$400  |  Key look: Black base, vivid continuous yellow spinal stripe

If you want a snake that features tons of vibrant yellow, the Lemonback may be the one you want. It’s like a more refined version of the citron ball python.

Its base color is dark black. You can spot those signature patterns on the side, as well.

The most defining feature, however, is the stripe on the back. It runs along the spine. Towards the front, the stripe is solid and relatively uniform. 

The stripe breaks up a bit towards the middle to coincide with the pattern. But, it solidifies again towards the tail.

Web

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$400  |  Key look: Solid yellow-tan patches on black, clean high-contrast pattern

Next up, we have the web ball python. This ball python morph is all about creating a clean pattern with high contrast and vivid colors. 

It’s covered in yellow-tan markings. The pattern isn’t as sporadic as some other ball python morphs. You’re not going to see too many head shapes or holes. 

The brighter chunks are solid and uniform, creating a nice accent against the black base color.

Ajax

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$400  |  Key look: Uniform, evenly-spaced alien-head patterns along the sides

If the previous color morph prioritized solid patterns, this one is the complete opposite. The ajax ball python embraces the snake’s naturally occurring shapes.

These snakes feature several “alien-head” patterns along the side. The interesting thing about this morph is that they are pretty uniform compared to other variations. 

The shapes are similar in size. They all feature those signature holes all lined up as well.

Sauce

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$400  |  Key look: Defined head mask, muddy merged patterns towards mid-body

With the sauce color morph, ball python’s signature shapes merge into a unique mass of color.

The colors are all the same. The snakes feature a dark base color with yellow-tan saddles. Those bright-colored patches are more defined towards the snake’s head.

On the face, they create mask-like markings that pop.

But towards the middle, the snake is noticeably muddier. The shapes lose their definition a bit, resulting in a unique look.

Trident

Genetics: Codominant  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$400  |  Key look: Black-dominant, faded semi-transparent markings

The trident ball python is a codominant morph with an overall darker appearance.

The main color for this snake is black. The base color covers more of the body. It still has familiar markings throughout. 

However, those markings are faded and nondescript. The shapes are less-defined and darker. They look as if they are semi-transparent.

Fire Ivory aka Super Fire Yellow Belly

Genetics: Designer (Yellow Belly × Fire × Ivory)  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $500–$1,500  |  Key look: Cream or lavender body, faint honeycomb patches or spinal stripe

The fire ivory is a rare color morph that fetches a pretty penny. The reason these snakes are pricey is because they take a long time to develop. The snake is a product of three gene pools.

They come from yellow belly, fire, and ivory ball pythons. These snakes wouldn’t seem like they’d work together. However, you can see elements from all three in the fire ivory.

Most of the morph is cream-colored. Some also take on a cooler lavender color. Very faint patches of yellowish-orange appear on the body. 

They appear sporadically on the tail and mid-section. Because they are so faint, the patches lack any concrete details. They look more like honeycomb shapes rather than the signature saddles.

In lieu of the patches, some snakes may also have a single stripe. It’s the same color as the patches. But, it lines the spine and stretches along the entire body.

Bongo Pastel

Genetics: Designer (Bongo × Pastel)  |  Rarity: Uncommon  |  Price: $200–$500  |  Key look: Purple at hatch, develops into black & vivid yellow as adult

As the name would imply, this ball python morph is a result of breeding a bongo breed with a pastel color morph. 

When they first hatch, these snakes are almost purple in color. But, they quickly develop a darker color pattern as they grow up.

The base color is black. Standard patterned blocks line the sides and spine. But instead of a typical tan hue, they are closer to yellow. The pastel genes make the color more vibrant and add beautiful blushing around the borders.

Razor

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $400+  |  Key look: Yellowish tan, lateral spider-crack markings

Razor ball pythons are another standout color morph that you don’t see everywhere. This one looks almost ancient, featuring intricate lines.

It doesn’t have the large bulky patterns like some other ball python morphs are sporting. Most of the body is a yellowish tan. Subtly faded clumps of the darker brown line the tops and sides.

The same color can be found on the head as well. It covers the dome and extends to the snout, giving the snake a very unique flare.

Along the back and sides, you’ll see spider-like markings. They run laterally as opposed to parallel to the spine. They appear to be cracking the snake’s skin, revealing a darker core.

Zuwadi

Genetics: Unknown  |  Rarity: Rare  |  Price: $400+  |  Key look: Faded dark base, yellow ring-shaped markings, thick bright yellow spinal band

Here’s a cool morph that many collectors are vying to own! When you compare it to the classic ball python look and many of the similar variations, it stands out.

First off, the base color is not as dark. It looks like a faded black or dark brown color. On the sides of the snake’s body, you’ll find the signature patterns.

They’re smaller than the standard “alien-head” shape. Instead, they resemble rings. Yellow in color, the figures pop thanks to the solid black lining.

The most defining feature is, without a doubt, the yellow spinal band. It’s bright yellow and very thick. Running from the neck to the tip of the tail, it creates a beautiful accent that stands out from the crowd.

Take Your Pick!

We hope this comprehensive guide on ball python morphs can help you narrow down the possible options and help you make a choice. Whether you’re looking for something cool or a bit more understated, you should have plenty of options in the list above.

If you have any morphs that you think we should consider adding to the list (or questions about the different types you see above), we’re more than happy to help. Just send over a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!

Also, don’t forget to check out our ball python care guide to help you prepare for ownership!

Frequently Asked Questions