Description
Localreptileshows is a Raleigh, NC-based retailer specializing in captive-bred reptiles and reptile supplies. The Ultramel Ball Python is a stunning, co-dominant morph that combines the hypo-like Ultramel gene with classic Ball Python traits. This specimen offers a unique, high-contrast appearance that stands out in any collection. We have this 12-18″ captive-bred juvenile available now for $199.99.
Reviewed by Derrick Cole, Range Master & Reviewer at Localreptileshows. 19 years competitive shooting, product tester for 3 manufacturers.
Last updated: April 2026
What Are the Specifications of This Ultramel Ball Python?
Before we get into the genetics and care, let’s lay out the hard facts. In my shop, I always start with the specs—it’s how I evaluate any product, from a custom 1911 to a reptile. Here’s the detailed breakdown of what you’re getting.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Live Reptile – Ball Python Morph |
| Material (Genetics) | Python regius – Ultramel Co-dominant Gene |
| Manufacturing (Breeding) | Captive-Bred (CB) in a professional US facility |
| Finish (Appearance) | High-contrast pattern, reduced black pigment, vibrant coloration |
| Hardness/Quality (Health) | Excellent body condition, clear eyes, strong feeding response |
| Compatibility | Solo housing recommended; compatible with standard Ball Python enclosures & husbandry |
| Installation/Usage | Ready for rehoming into a proper 20-40 gallon setup |
| Weight | Approximately 80-120 grams (varies per individual) |
| Dimensions (Size) | 12-18 inches in total length |
| Country of Origin | United States (Captive-Bred Lineage) |
| Condition | Healthy, established feeder on frozen/thawed rodents |
| SKU | LR-BP-ULTRA-JUV |
Key Features of the Ultramel Ball Python Morph
Handling this snake, the first thing you notice is the color. It’s not just another brown python. The Ultramel gene acts like a hypo, but it’s different. It reduces the black melanin, allowing the underlying yellows, golds, and tans to pop with more intensity. The pattern remains crisp and clean, giving you a classic Ball Python look but with a brighter, cleaner palette. This is a co-dominant gene, which is a major feature for breeders. That means even pairing it with a normal Ball Python can produce visual Ultramels in the clutch, making it a powerful and efficient genetic building block for future projects. The animal I have here is alert, curious, and has a great feeding record—a sign of good health and careful breeding.
Who Is This Ultramel Ball Python For?
Buy it if: You’re a Ball Python keeper looking to add a proven, visually striking morph to your collection without the premium price tag of more complex combos. It’s ideal for a hobbyist who wants something more distinctive than a normal but appreciates the classic pattern. It’s also an excellent first morph for someone stepping into the genetics side of the hobby, as the co-dominant inheritance is straightforward to understand and work with. Breeders will see the value in its potential for creating Ultramel Ball Python combos like Ultramel Mojaves, Butter Ultramels, or even more complex multi-gene animals.
Skip it if: You are an absolute beginner who hasn’t set up a proper enclosure yet. Get your habitat dialed in first with a more readily available normal. If you are specifically seeking a fully grown, breeding-sized adult, this is a juvenile. You might want to check our listings for an Ultramel Ball Python adult. Also, if your goal is only the rarest, most expensive designer morph, this is a foundational animal, not the final product.
Pros and Cons: My Hands-On Assessment
Based on inspecting this animal and my experience with the morph:
Pros:
- ✅ Strong Genetics: The co-dominant Ultramel gene is reliable and well-understood, a solid choice for breeding projects.
- ✅ Visual Impact: Offers a noticeable and attractive upgrade from a normal Ball Python’s appearance.
- ✅ Breeding Value: As a co-dominant, it can produce visual offspring even when paired with a normal, offering great genetic efficiency.
- ✅ Health & Establishment: This is a captive-bred juvenile that is already a confirmed feeder, eliminating a major hurdle for new owners.
- ✅ Fair Ultramel Ball Python price: At under $200, it represents solid value for a visually distinct, proven morph.
Cons:
- ❌ Not a “Designer” Combo: This is a single-gene animal. While beautiful, it’s not the flashiest multi-gene combo on the market. If that’s your goal, see our Ball Python morph section for higher-end animals.
- ❌ Juvenile Size: You will need to grow it out to breeding size, which requires time and consistent care over 2-3 years.
How Does It Compare to Other Ball Python Morphs?
Let’s put this Ultramel Ball Python for sale in context. I’m comparing it to two common alternatives you’ll find in the market.
| Feature | Localreptileshows Ultramel | Budget Import Normal | Premium Designer Combo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material (Genetics) | Proven US Co-dominant Morph | Wild-type, often unknown lineage | Multi-gene (e.g., Clown Pied) |
| Quality (Health) | Captive-Bred, Established Feeder | May be wild-caught or farmed, can have parasites | Captive-Bred, usually high-end care |
| Compatibility (Breeding) | High – Excellent for creating new combos | Low – No special genetic value | Specialized – For specific projects |
| Shipping | Same-day, insulated packaging from NC | Long int’l transit, high stress | Varies, often high cost |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long, healthy captive lifespan expected | Potentially compromised long-term health | Long, healthy captive lifespan |
| Price | $199.99 | $60 – $80 | $250 – $2000+ |
The Ultramel sits in a sweet spot. It’s not the cheapest option, but you’re paying for known genetics, health, and future potential. It’s not the most expensive, but it gets you into the morph game with a quality animal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Ultramel Ball Python?
An Ultramel Ball Python is a color and pattern morph caused by a co-dominant genetic mutation. It is often described as a “hypo-like” gene because it reduces the black pigment (melanin), resulting in a brighter, higher-contrast snake with more vivid yellows, golds, and tans while keeping the classic Ball Python pattern distinct.
How do you make an Ultramel Ball Python?
You breed two Ball Pythons that carry the Ultramel gene. Because it’s co-dominant, breeding two visual Ultramels together can produce a “Super” form (often called a “Super Ultramel”), which typically appears even lighter. Breeding a visual Ultramel to a normal Ball Python will, on average, produce half Ultramels and half normals. Understanding these Ultramel Ball Python genetics is key for breeding.
Is this a good snake for a beginner?
If you have already researched and set up a proper Ball Python enclosure with correct heat, humidity, and hides, then yes, this is a fine choice. The care is identical to a normal Ball Python. If you are completely new to reptiles and haven’t done the setup work, start with that first.
What do you feed it, and how often?
This juvenile is eating frozen/thawed rodent pups appropriate to its size (roughly the same width as the snake’s widest part). We recommend feeding once every 5-7 days. Always provide fresh water.
How big will it get?
Ball Pythons are a medium-sized constrictor. Females typically reach 3-5 feet, males 2-3 feet. This animal will need an adult enclosure of at least a 40-gallon breeder tank or equivalent PVC enclosure.
Where can I buy a Ball Python online?
You can buy this and other quality captive-bred reptiles directly from us at Localreptileshows.com, based in Raleigh, NC. We specialize in healthy animals and secure, professional shipping.
What is your shipping and live arrival policy?
We ship via FedEx Overnight Priority to ensure the fastest, safest transit. We only ship Monday-Wednesday to avoid weekend delays. We provide a live arrival guarantee with specific requirements—details are on our website’s shipping policy page. The animal is packed in an insulated box with heat or cool packs as needed for the weather.
Ready to Add This Ultramel to Your Collection?
✅ Same-day shipping from Raleigh, NC
✅ Discreet, professional packaging
✅ 30-day health guarantee
✅ Secure online checkout
This 12-18″ captive-bred Ultramel Ball Python is a standout morph that bridges the gap between classic beauty and genetic potential. At $199.99, it’s a responsible investment into the hobby.
Browse more: Ball Pythons | Full Shop
About this review: This assessment is based on direct inspection of the animal by Derrick Cole at our Raleigh facility. As with any live animal, individual appearance and temperament may vary slightly. All care and legal guidelines are the responsibility of the purchaser.
Last updated: April 2026
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