Photo Credit: Reptichip
Burmese Python Care Guide
Python bivittatus
Burmese pythons are large, thick-bodied constrictor snakes native to the tropics of western Asia, naturally found in southeastern China and Vietnam. They have also become a major invasive species in Florida. Well known for their ability to exceed 20 feet in length, the average adult weighs 80–150 pounds. Their lifespan in captivity typically ranges from 20–25 years.
These snakes require careful, specialized care due to their large size and advanced intelligence. As they reach maturity, they can become potentially dangerous — keepers should be fully aware of these risks before obtaining this species. They also grow quickly and will outgrow enclosures frequently. This species is not suited for every household. Potential owners should ensure they have the ability to keep the animal long-term before purchasing.
Enclosure
Burmese pythons are giant snakes and custom-built enclosures are usually necessary. The enclosure length should allow the snake to stretch to its full body length, and the width should be approximately half the snake’s length. Burmese pythons are semi-arboreal and prefer several sturdy branches for climbing and perching. Many keepers dedicate an entire room or outbuilding to their python. The larger the enclosure, the better.
Substrate
Burmese pythons live in tropical forest environments and do best with tropical soil mixes. A common blend is 40% plain topsoil, 40% coconut fiber, and 20% play sand. Cypress mulch and Reptichip are also good options. Substrate should be at least 4–6 inches deep to provide adequate cushioning and maintain humidity. Adding a layer of leaf litter can help maintain humid conditions and provide enrichment.
Keep in mind that large snakes create a large mess — substrate will require frequent cleaning and replacement.
Temperature
- Warm side: 90–92°F
- Cool side: 80–88°F
- Nighttime: 78–82°F
Due to the size of these snakes, keepers often need a cluster of 4–6 heat lamps to create a large enough basking area. Ensure all heat bulbs are kept at a safe distance and cannot come into direct contact with or be tipped over by the snake. An infrared temperature gun is recommended to monitor temperatures throughout the enclosure.
Humidity
Maintain humidity at 60–75% — small fluctuations are well tolerated. Place digital hygrometers in several locations within the enclosure to monitor levels easily. Provide excellent drainage and ventilation to prevent substrate from becoming oversaturated. Mist the enclosure 2–3 times daily; automated misting systems are convenient for larger enclosures.
Providing a pool or pond is also recommended — Burmese pythons spend a significant amount of time in water. Large plastic utility tubs, stock tubs, or pond liners work well as long as the snake can curl its entire body inside. Change the water at least once weekly and disinfect regularly with a product such as Rescue or F10SC.
UVB Lighting
UVB lighting is recommended to support optimal calcium metabolism. The UVB lamp should be on during daylight hours — approximately 12 hours per day — and installed over the warm/basking side of the enclosure. Follow manufacturer distance guidelines carefully. Recommended bulbs include the Zoo Med Reptisun 5.0 or Arcadia Forest 6%. A Solarmeter device can be used to measure the UV index in the basking area, which should ideally range from 2.0–3.0. Additional bright LED grow lighting is also recommended to replicate natural daylight.
Diet & Feeding
Like all snakes, Burmese pythons are strict carnivores requiring whole prey for complete nutrition. Prey items should be 1–1.5× the girth of the snake’s body. Larger meals require longer intervals before the next feeding to allow full digestion.
- Young snakes: every 1–2 weeks
- Juveniles: every 2–3 weeks
- Adults: every 4–6 weeks
Provide a varied diet with appropriate whole prey items including African soft-furred rats, large domestic rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, quail, pheasants, chickens, ducks, and piglets. Reptilinks can also be used. Frozen/thawed prey is preferred over live prey — thaw to approximately 100°F before feeding.
Handling
Once they reach full size, Burmese pythons can be dangerous to handle. If your snake is over 10 feet long, a minimum of two handlers must be present at all times. Never allow the snake to wrap around your neck or torso. Children and small pets should be kept at a safe distance and never left unsupervised near the enclosure.
Veterinary Care
An annual wellness examination and fecal screening for parasites is recommended for all reptiles.
