Ball python
Python regius
The Ball Python gets its name from its habit of curling tightly into a ball when it feels threatened, hiding its head in the center of its coils. Found in the grasslands and open forests of western and central Africa, this non-venomous snake prefers warm, dry habitats with plenty of cover. It usually grows up to 5 feet long and has a thick body covered in patterns of brown, gold, and black that help it stay hidden from predators. A nocturnal hunter, the Ball Python uses heat-sensing pits along its upper lip to detect warm-blooded prey like rodents. Calm and slow-moving, it spends much of its time hidden in burrows or beneath vegetation.
Ozzy’s Story: Ozzy is the oldest resident at the Topsail Aquarium, estimated to be around 35 years old. While she's been part of our family for over 11 years, her journey here began under very different circumstances.
Ozzy was originally kept as a pet by an owner who gave her an entire jungle-themed room to explore as a free-range ball python. One day, following her natural curiosity, Ozzy escaped and wandered into a neighboring yard. Unfortunately, the neighbor had never seen a ball python before and mistakenly believed she was a venomous copperhead. Out of fear, Ozzy was repeatedly struck with yard tools, leaving her with severe injuries.
Thankfully, Ozzy was rescued and brought to the Topsail Aquarium, where she received the care she needed to make a remarkable recovery. Since then, she has become one of our most beloved residents.
Today, Ozzy serves as an incredible ambassador for snakes. Every year, she helps thousands of visitors discover that snakes are not the dangerous, aggressive animals they're often portrayed to be. Her story reminds us that fear often comes from misunderstanding, and that education is one of the most powerful tools we have for protecting wildlife. By meeting Ozzy, guests leave with a new appreciation for these fascinating reptiles and the important role they play in our ecosystems.