🐍 General Info

Burmese Pythons (Python bivittatus) are massive, powerful constrictors native to Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and surrounding regions. They are one of the largest snake species in the world, known for their thick bodies, calm demeanor, and striking tan, brown, and gold blotched patterns.

Despite their intimidating size, Burmese pythons are often described as docile, slow-moving, and tolerant of handling when well-socialized. However, their sheer size and strength make them advanced-level reptiles that require serious commitment, space, and long-term planning.

Adults commonly reach 12–16 feet, with some individuals exceeding 18 feet. Females are significantly larger and heavier than males. With proper care, Burmese pythons can live 20–30+ years in captivity.

Enclosure

  • Size:

  • Burmese pythons require extremely large, secure enclosures, especially as adults.

    • Hatchlings: 36" x 18" x 12"

    • Juveniles: 4 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft

    • Subadults: 6 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft

    • Adults: Minimum 8–10 ft x 4 ft x 4 ft

    • Large adults: 12 ft+ enclosures or dedicated snake rooms strongly recommended

  • A general rule: the enclosure should be at least ⅔ the snake’s length and wide enough for full-body turns.

  • Material:

    • Heavy-duty PVC enclosures (preferred)

    • Sealed wood or custom-built enclosures

    • Must be escape-proof with locking doors

    • Strong ventilation without sacrificing humidity

  • Note: Glass tanks are not suitable for large Burmese pythons.

  • Décor:

    • Large, sturdy hides on both warm and cool sides

    • Thick branches or low platforms (optional, juveniles climb more)

    • Heavy décor must be secured — Burmese pythons are extremely strong

    • Open floor space for movement

    • Large water tub for soaking

  • Substrate:

    • Cypress mulch

    • Coconut husk or chips

    • Aspen (only in lower humidity environments)

    • Paper substrate (easy cleaning but less natural)

Temperature & Lighting

  • Temperatures:

    • Warm side: 88–92°F

    • Cool side: 78–82°F

    • Basking area: 95°F (optional but beneficial)

    • Night temperatures: 75–80°F

  • Heating:

    • Radiant heat panels (best for large enclosures)

    • Ceramic heat emitters

    • Overhead heating preferred

    • Heat mats may be used for juveniles but are ineffective for adults

  • Note: Always use thermostats — burns are a major risk with large snakes.

  • Lighting:

    • UVB is not required, but low-level UVB (2.0–5.0) can provide benefits

    • Provide a consistent 12-hour day/night cycle

    • Bright visible light helps establish natural rhythms

Humidity & Water

  • Humidity: 50–70% ideal

    • Increase to 70–80% during shedding

  • Maintaining humidity:

    • Large water tub

    • Occasional misting

    • Humidity-holding substrate

  • Note: Avoid overly wet enclosures, which can cause scale rot and mold

  • Water:

    • Provide a very large, sturdy water container

    • Should be big enough for full-body soaking

    • Change water daily or immediately when soiled

Diet

  • Type: Burmese pythons are strict carnivores that consume large prey items.

  • Feeding Schedule:

    • Hatchlings: Every 5–7 days

    • Juveniles: Every 7–10 days

    • Subadults: Every 10–14 days

    • Adults: Every 14–21 days

  • Staple Food:

    • Rats (juveniles/subadults)

    • Large rats, rabbits, or poultry for adults

    • Prey should be appropriately sized (no larger than 1–1.25× body width)

  • Notes:

    • Avoid overfeeding — obesity is very common

    • Frozen-thawed prey strongly recommended

    • Live feeding should be avoided due to injury risk

    • Feeding large prey requires planning and safety awareness

Behavior & Handling

  • Temperament:

    • Generally calm and slow-moving

    • Often tolerant of handling when raised properly

    • Females are significantly stronger than males

  • Handling:

    • Its recommended to have 2 people to help handle at all time due to their size as adults

    • Use hooks for initial interaction

    • Avoid handling after feeding (48–72 hours)

    • Never handle alone once the snake exceeds safe solo size

    • Respect and awareness are essential — Burmese pythons are not aggressive, but accidents can be severe.

  • Enrichment:

    • Large hides

    • Periodic enclosure rearrangement

    • Safe, supervised exploration outside enclosure

    • Different textures and surfaces

Health & Lifespan

  • Lifespan: 20–30+ years with proper care

  • Common Health Issues:

    • Respiratory infections (low temps or poor ventilation)

    • Obesity

    • Scale rot (from excessive moisture)

    • Mouth rot (stomatitis)

    • Burns from improper heating

    • Parasites (more common in imports)

  • Signs of Illness:

    • Wheezing or clicking

    • Open-mouth breathing

    • Lethargy

    • Regurgitation

    • Retained shed or eye caps

    • Loss of muscle tone

    • Refusal to eat outside seasonal cycles

  • Veterinary Care: Professional veterinary care should always be consulted when you think your pet may have an issue. Watch for signs of illness, catching an issue early on goes a long way.

Final Thoughts:

Burmese pythons are impressive, intelligent, and often gentle giants, but they demand serious space, strength awareness, and long-term commitment. They are not beginner snakes and should only be kept by experienced, responsible keepers prepared for their adult size.

With proper enclosure design, correct temperatures, responsible feeding, and safe handling practices, Burmese pythons can thrive for decades and remain calm, predictable, and rewarding animals to work with.