Habitat
Tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, preferring areas near water sources with dense vegetation and high humidity
Species care guide
Blood Python
Blood pythons (Python brongersmai) are heavy-bodied, short-tailed pythons native to Malaysia, Thailand, and Sumatra. They are known for their thick, muscular build and relatively calm temperament when properly acclimated. These snakes require high humidity and consistent temperatures, making them better suited for keepers with some python experience.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Lifespan
20-30 years
Adult size
4-6 feet, with females typically larger and heavier than males
Humidity
75-85%
Temperature
Maintain a temperature gradient with basking spot on warm side and cooler area for thermoregulation. Use ceramic heat emitters or radiant heat panels for consistent heating. Monitor with reliable thermometers.
Hot side
88-92°F
Cool side
78-82°F
Night
75-80°F
Humidity
Blood pythons require high humidity levels year-round. Provide a large water bowl and mist enclosure as needed. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent stagnant air and mold growth.
Target range: 75-85%
Feeding
Feed appropriately sized frozen-thawed prey. Prey should be 10-15% of snake's body weight. Adult blood pythons can go several weeks between meals due to their slow metabolism.
Frequency: Juveniles every 7-10 days, adults every 2-4 weeks
miceratsrabbits for large adults
Handling
Handle gently and confidently, supporting the body. Allow new snakes 1-2 weeks to settle before handling. Blood pythons can be defensive initially but usually calm down with regular, gentle interaction. Handle during cooler parts of day when snake is less active.
Health
Generally hardy when proper husbandry is maintained. High humidity requirements make them susceptible to respiratory issues if ventilation is poor. Regular health checks and quarantine of new animals is essential.
- respiratory infections
- scale rot
- mites
- retained sheds
- obesity
Breeding
Breeding requires cool-down period of 60-65°F for 2-3 months. Females lay 10-30 eggs after 3-4 month gestation. Eggs require 60-65 days incubation at 88-90°F with high humidity. Sexual maturity reached at 3-4 years.
Morphs
Several color and pattern morphs available including albino, ivory, granite, blood red, and various locality forms. Wild-type specimens show beautiful red, orange, and brown coloration with distinctive patterns.
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