Ball pythons are popular pets, especially for beginners, due to their calm nature and manageable size. These snakes curl into a ball when nervous, making them non-aggressive and easy to handle ...

Recently, there have been multiple ball python sightings in S.C. In September 2023, a ball python was found in a Walmart parking lot in Pickens, with police taking it into custody.

The pet trade isn’t the only thing putting ball pythons under pressure. They’re also regularly hunted for their meat and skin, and for use in traditional medicine and spiritual practices.