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Zoo Investigates Rare Asexual Reproduction in Ball Python

10/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2021, a ball python at the Saint Louis Zoo in Missouri died at 62, the zoo's oldest snake.
The snake laid viable eggs in 2020 after 15 years without male contact.
This case may involve parthenogenesis, a form of asexual reproduction.
The Saint Louis Zoo is investigating this phenomenon, which is increasingly recognized across species.
Some female snakes can store sperm and begin pregnancy when conditions are favorable.

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Story summary

In 2021, a ball python at the Saint Louis Zoo in Missouri died at 62, the zoo's oldest snake.
The snake laid viable eggs in 2020 after 15 years without male contact.
This case may involve parthenogenesis, a form of asexual reproduction.
The Saint Louis Zoo is investigating this phenomenon, which is increasingly recognized across species.
Some female snakes can store sperm and begin pregnancy when conditions are favorable.