Burmese Python Care Sheet

 

Scientific Name: Python bivittatus
Common Names: Burmese Python, Burmese Rock Python
Origin: Southeast Asia, including India, Thailand, and Indonesia
Average Size: 10-16 feet (3-5 meters), with some individuals reaching up to 20 feet
Lifespan: 20-25 years in captivity

Overview

Burmese pythons are large, non-venomous constrictor snakes known for their impressive size and docile temperament. They are popular as exotic pets due to their manageable nature when raised in captivity, but they require significant space and care. These snakes are often kept by experienced reptile keepers because of their size and special environmental needs.

Housing Requirements

Enclosure Size

  • Young Burmese Pythons (under 4 feet): Minimum 40-gallon tank (3 feet long)
  • Adult Burmese Pythons (over 10 feet): Minimum 6x3 feet enclosure, but larger is always better (e.g., 8x4 feet).

Burmese pythons are active and need space to stretch out and move around. Larger enclosures provide better opportunities for exercise and enrichment.

Enclosure Setup

  • Substrate: Use non-abrasive materials like coco husk, aspen shavings or cypress mulch. Avoid cedar or pine, as they are toxic to snakes.
  • Hides: Provide at least two hides (one warm and one cool side) to ensure your python feels secure.
  • Climbing: Incorporate branches or other climbing structures, as Burmese pythons enjoy elevating themselves.
  • Water: Provide a large, shallow water dish. Burmese pythons enjoy soaking and will use the water for hydration and thermoregulation.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature Gradient:
    • Hot side: 88-92°F (31-33°C)
    • Cool side: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
  • Basking Spot: A basking area of 90-95°F (32-35°C) is ideal.
  • Nighttime Temperature: Maintain temperatures around 75-80°F (24-27°C) during the night.
  • Humidity: Keep the humidity levels between 50-60%. Higher humidity is crucial during shedding, so a humidity range of 60-70% is ideal during this period.

Provide proper ventilation to avoid mold growth in the enclosure, and use a hygrometer and thermometer to monitor the temperature and humidity accurately.

Feeding

  • Diet: Burmese pythons are carnivores, feeding on rodents, birds, and occasionally larger prey items such as rabbits or pigs in the wild. In captivity, they should be fed appropriately sized prey (e.g., rats, rabbits, guinea pigs).
  • Feeding Frequency:
    • Young Pythons (up to 3 feet): Feed every 7-10 days.
    • Adults (over 6 feet): Feed every 2-3 weeks, as they can consume larger prey and take longer to digest.
  • Prey Size: Offer prey that is about the same width or slightly larger than the snake's widest girth. Overfeeding or offering prey that is too large can cause health issues.
  • Feeding Method: Live or thawed, appropriately sized prey items may be offered. Use tongs to avoid associating hands with food.

Shedding

  • Burmese pythons, like all snakes, shed their skin periodically. Ensure that your snake has access to proper humidity levels during shedding (60-70%).
  • Provide a shedding box (a humid hide) filled with damp sphagnum moss to help the snake shed properly.
  • If your snake struggles to shed, consult a vet to check for retained skin or other health concerns.

Handling

  • Temperament: Burmese pythons are generally calm and docile when raised in captivity. However, due to their size and strength, they may become difficult to handle as they grow.
  • Handling Frequency: It's best to handle them regularly to maintain their calm nature, but avoid excessive handling that could stress the animal. Start slow with young snakes and gradually work up to longer sessions as they grow.
  • Safety: Always support the snake’s full body during handling and avoid holding it around the neck or head, as this can cause stress or injury.

Health & Veterinary Care

  • Common Health Issues:
    • Respiratory infections (often linked to poor humidity or temperature)
    • Mites or external parasites
    • Obesity or digestive problems from improper feeding
  • Routine Checkups: Have a veterinarian experienced with reptiles conduct yearly check-ups. Watch for signs of illness, including lethargy, abnormal feces, or breathing issues.
  • Signs of Stress: Decreased appetite, defensive behavior, or unusual hiding can indicate stress, which may be caused by incorrect temperature, humidity, or handling.

Breeding Information

  • Sexing: Male Burmese pythons tend to be smaller and have shorter tails compared to females.
  • Breeding Season: They usually breed during the cooler months (fall and winter). Females can lay anywhere from 12 to 36 eggs.
  • Egg Incubation: Eggs should be incubated at 88-90°F (31-32°C) with humidity around 80%. Hatchlings emerge after about 2-3 months.

Conclusion

Burmese pythons are fascinating, large, and relatively docile snakes that make impressive pets for experienced reptile keepers. They require large enclosures, proper temperature and humidity control, and appropriate feeding schedules to thrive. Proper care and attention will ensure your Burmese python stays healthy, happy, and well-adjusted for many years to come.

Remember: Always research thoroughly and ensure you are prepared to care for a pet as large and long-lived as a Burmese python before making the commitment.