Burmese Python Care Sheet: Comprehensive Guide for Proper Husbandry
Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) are one of the largest snake species in the world. Their impressive size, striking patterns, and relatively docile nature make them a popular choice among experienced reptile keepers. However, their significant space requirements, long lifespan, and potential ownership restrictions mean they are not suitable for everyone. This care sheet provides essential information for responsible Burmese python care.
Basic Information
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Common Name: Burmese Python
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Scientific Name: Python bivittatus
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Lifespan: 20-25 years (some individuals may live longer)
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Full Size: 12-18 feet on average; exceptional specimens can exceed 20 feet
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Weight: 100-200 pounds, with some individuals reaching over 250 pounds
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Temperament: Generally docile but requires careful handling due to size and strength
Where They Are Found in the Wild
Burmese pythons are native to Southeast Asia, including:
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Myanmar (Burma)
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Thailand
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Vietnam
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Cambodia
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Parts of India, China, and Indonesia
They thrive in a variety of habitats, including tropical forests, marshlands, and grasslands. They are semi-aquatic and often found near bodies of water, where they are skilled swimmers.
Burmese Pythons as an Invasive Species in the U.S.
Burmese pythons have become an invasive species in Florida, particularly in the Everglades. Released or escaped pet pythons have established a breeding population, leading to severe ecological consequences, including:
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Declines in native mammal populations (e.g., raccoons, rabbits, deer)
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Competition with native predators such as alligators
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Alterations in the food chain
Due to their impact, Burmese pythons are regulated in several states, and ownership may be restricted or require permits. Always check local and federal laws before acquiring one as a pet.
Fun Facts About Burmese Pythons
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They are among the top five largest snake species in the world.
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They are excellent swimmers and can stay submerged for up to 30 minutes.
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Some Burmese pythons have been documented hunting and consuming alligators.
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They have heat-sensing pits along their lips to detect warm-blooded prey.
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Unlike many snake species, Burmese pythons can be social and tolerate cohabitation in captivity (with proper monitoring).
Proper Enclosure Sizing and Setup
Due to their massive size, Burmese pythons require spacious enclosures that accommodate their growth.
Enclosure Size
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Juveniles (up to 3 feet): 4x2x2 ft enclosure
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Sub-adults (3-8 feet): 6x3x2 ft enclosure
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Adults (8-12 feet): Minimum of 8x4x4 ft
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Large Adults (12+ feet): 10x6x4 ft or larger
Substrate
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Best options: Cypress mulch, coconut husk, or paper-based bedding
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Avoid: Cedar or pine, as they contain harmful oils
Temperature and Humidity
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Basking Spot: 88-92°F
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Cool Side: 75-80°F
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Ambient Temperature: 80-85°F
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Humidity: 50-70% (higher during shedding)
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Lighting: UVB is not required but can be beneficial
Water Requirements
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Provide a large, sturdy water bowl big enough for soaking
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Change water daily to prevent bacterial buildup
Diet and Feeding
Burmese pythons are carnivorous constrictors, primarily feeding on mammals and birds.
Feeding Schedule
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Hatchlings (0-6 months): Feed once every 5-7 days
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Juveniles (6-24 months): Feed every 7-10 days
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Sub-adults (2-4 years): Feed every 14-21 days
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Adults (4+ years): Feed every 3-4 weeks
Prey Size
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Feed appropriately sized rodents or rabbits
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Prey should be no larger than the widest part of the snake’s body
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Use frozen/thawed prey to avoid injury from live prey
Handling and Safety
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Handle with care and confidence; sudden movements may startle them
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For large pythons (10+ feet), always have a second person present
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Avoid handling for 48 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation
Health Concerns
Common Health Issues
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Respiratory Infections: Caused by low temperatures or poor humidity
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Mouth Rot (Stomatitis): Symptoms include swollen gums and excess saliva
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Shedding Problems: Ensure proper humidity and provide rough surfaces for shedding assistance
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Obesity: Monitor feeding frequency and activity levels to prevent overfeeding
Signs of a Healthy Burmese Python
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Clear eyes (except during shedding)
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Smooth, even scales
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Strong muscle tone
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Regular, healthy feeding and defecation habits
Ownership Considerations and Legal Restrictions
Due to their large size and potential danger, Burmese pythons are subject to ownership regulations in several locations.
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Restricted states: Florida, New York, and others require special permits or prohibit ownership entirely
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Federal regulations: Burmese pythons are listed as an invasive species under the Lacey Act, restricting their transport across state lines
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Check local laws: Before purchasing, confirm ownership legality in your area
Burmese pythons are fascinating and rewarding snakes for experienced keepers, but they require extensive care, space, and responsibility. Their status as an invasive species in the U.S. has led to ownership restrictions, so always research your local laws before acquiring one. If properly housed, fed, and maintained, a Burmese python can be a long-lived and impressive addition to a reptile collection.
References
- U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) – Burmese Python Invasion in Florida: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/wetland-and-aquatic-research-center/science/invasive-burmese-pythons-florida
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) – Burmese Python Regulations: https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/python/
- National Park Service – Everglades Invasive Species: https://www.nps.gov/ever/learn/nature/invasives.htm
- The Journal of Herpetology – Studies on Burmese Python Behavior and Physiology: https://bioone.org/journals/journal-of-herpetology
- Reptile Magazine – Burmese Python Care and Husbandry: https://reptilesmagazine.com/burmese-python-care/