Blood Python Care Sheet

By Reptitrader

NEW!! Scroll down for a video on some guy’s blood python collection

Photo By Tigerpython

(Care sheets are a quick guide to looking after snakes, for more comprehensive information consult the relevant book at our book store)

General: Blood Pythons (pyhon Brongersmai) are heavy bodied snakes that can grow to a length of between 50 and 66 inches (females). Some specimens have reached as long as 72 inches. They are found throughout Western Malaysia, South West Thailand, Sumatra, Bangka island and other islands in the straits of Malacca. They have an extremely variable pattern and there are a few morphs available.

Enclosure: Adult Blood Pythons require a large, secure and well ventilated enclosure with a floor space of between 6 and 12 square feet. Juveniles can be housed in suitably sized plastic tubs. Enclosures must be furnished with 2 suitably sized hides (Hot and Cold), and a large water bowl for drinking and soaking in.

Substrate: Blood Pythons do equally well on newspaper, cypress bark chips, potting soil and carpet. Always stay away from cedar and pine as these can be toxic to snakes.

Temperature & Humidity: Blood Pythons do well with an ambient daytime temperature of around 82 degrees F with a hot spot of around 87 degrees F and nighttime temperatures in the high 70s. A humidity of between 60 and 70% is required and should be raised if your snake has any problems shedding.

Feeding: Blood Python adults can be fed the equivalent of 1 appropriately sized rat a week although for large specimens 2 or 3 rats may be necessary. Never leave live prey items alone with your snake.

Cleaning: Clean your Blood Pythons enclosure thoroughly at least once a month and remove fecal matter as it appears. Clean water should always be available.