We are obsessed with keeping different reptiles as pets, including snakes. We love Corn snakes and Boas – the list goes on. But, how about pet pythons? Pythons, such as the Ball Python, are a popular first pet snake due to their fairly easy husbandry and striking colours and patterns.

Let’s have a look at the correct environment for a python to be a happy and healthy reptilian friend.

Table of contents

What is a python?

Pythons are fascinating creatures that can be found in Australia, Africa and Asia and enjoy living in a tropical climate. Similar to Boa Constrictors, Pythons stalk their prey and then kill them by constricting or squeezing them.

In the wild, Pythons have a fairly short lifespan. However, when they are provided with exceptional care in captivity, pythons can live for up to 40 years! So, be prepared to hand your python down to the next generation.

What enclosure does a python need?

A python enjoys exploring the ground making them a terrestrial species, however, they do enjoy exploring higher grounds too. A vivarium that is made from either wood or glass would suit a python and it should be big enough for the snake to explore their enclosure with adequate space. 

Keep in mind that your baby python can grow rather large, with some reaching up to 6m in length – wow!

A glass vivarium would make an ideal enclosure for a python as it retains humidity. Humidity levels are fairly high for a python and should be maintained between 60% – 80%. This can be tested with the use of a hygrometer, which measures humidity in the air.

Temperature

Pythons require heating so that they can regulate their body temperatures. Snakes are ectothermic, meaning that they require a heat source, so that they can either bask in the heat or move to the shade. A temperature gradient should be provided in the enclosure so that the python can move between the two temperatures as they please.

The warmer end of the enclosure should have a heat lamp, allowing the python to bask. Temperatures should maintain between 32 – 33 degrees celsius in the hot end and the cooler end should stay between 24 and 26 degrees celsius.

An accurate thermometer, such as a laser thermometer, should be used so that the correct temperatures can be achieved.

Substrate

Pythons should have the correct substrate that can hold moisture so that humidity levels are increased. Bioactive enclosures are becoming more beneficial for reptile and amphibian owners, and these contain a bioactive substrate which has isopods and springtails within it. These are known as the ‘clean up crew’ and will eradicate faeces and mould growth. A bioactive substrate is usually a mixture consisting of sterile topsoil, wood bark and sand.

Coconut husk 

This is an eco-friendly product that is produced from shredded coconut husks. It does a great job at retaining moisture which helps to increase humidity within the enclosure.

Bioactive substrate 

This creates a natural look to the enclosure and provides your python with a realistic substrate that they can explore.

Reptile carpet 

For easy cleaning, reptile carpets can be a great alternative to an actual substrate. They are easy to fit and maintain, however, I believe an animal’s enclosure should be as close to their natural environment as possible, so would highly recommend a bioactive terrarium.

Decoration and hiding areas

All pets need stimulation. After all, they are going to spend the majority of their lives in the same enclosure. Make it interesting, with plenty of hiding places to explore.

Bioactive enclosures can include live, non-toxic plants which help to make the environment more realistic. 

Make sure to provide plenty of sticks, logs and hides for your python to explore. A bored python is not a happy python, so give them as much stimulation as possible.

Companionship

On the whole, pythons do not need a friend and it can be quite dangerous to house two pythons together. In the wild, pythons only come together in the breeding season. If you keep pythons in the same enclosure, you run the risk of fighting – often to the death. 

Do not keep multiple pythons in the same enclosure. This can be dangerous for both you and your pet.

Final thoughts on python care

Pythons can make a fantastic reptile to care for. They can be a beginner friendly snake for an owner who is wanting to get to grips with reptile husbandry. However, the care of a python should not be underestimated and their health and wellbeing should always be at the forefront of your husbandry. 

With pythons being an exotic species, make sure that you know where your closest exotic vets is located. Use our vet finder tool to find your closest exotics practice.

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