Meet Banana, a friendly ball python who arrived at Earthplace in 2015 as a surrendered pet. Because exotic reptiles require highly specific environments and long-term commitment, many well-meaning owners find themselves unable to care for them. So, Banana found her permanent home with us, where she can live safely and comfortably.

Banana's habitat is tailored to her needs as a native of sub-Saharan Africa. She enjoys exploring her surroundings at her own pace and relaxing in her favorite hiding spots. Ball pythons are non-venomous constrictors that get their name from curling into a tight ball when frightened. They are also known as royal pythons because African royalty traditionally wore them as living jewelry.

Banana enjoys a carefully managed diet and is currently about 18 years old. While ball pythons only live about 10 years in the wild, they can live up to 30 years in captivity, meaning Banana has a long, bright future ahead of her as an educator.

Sponsoring Banana helps support her daily nutrition, specialized veterinary care, habitat upkeep, and enrichment. She is a wonderful ambassador for her species, teaching visitors the importance of reptile conservation and responsible pet ownership.