Description:
Scientific name: Morelia boeleni/ Simalia boeleni
Life span: 15–20 years
Adult S. boeleni have a color pattern on the underside that ranges from white to pale yellow, while the upper side is dark bluish-black or purplish-black. The white extends in a succession of stripes up the flanks. Labial scale patterns can also be seen on the upper and lower lips. The dark areas frequently have an iridescent shine that resembles an oil slick. The head is big, and the body is stocky. When neonates first emerge from the egg, they are primarily crimson. As the neonate grows and sheds, a gradual black coloring is visible. When the young snake reaches 1 m (39 in) in length, usually approximately 2 years old, ontogenetic color charge starts. Adults can grow to a maximum total length of 3 m (9.8 ft) (including tail).
Native Region/Habitat
S. boeleni can be found in Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. S. boeleni lives in wooded mountain areas between 1,000 and 2,000 meters above sea level (3,300–6,600 ft). Although it often lives on the forest floor, it is also thought to be a skilled climber.
Behavior:
The Boelen’s python is a timid snake by nature. Whether they are young or old, Boelen’s pythons will avoid human interaction in the wild. While they are young, they can be a little flighty in captivity. There is a need to give a general 12/12 light/dark photo cycle and pay attention to when your snake is most active because very little is known about their behavior in the wild. The Boelen’s python is a snake that lives largely on land. They are referred to as semi-arboreal since they do venture into trees that can support their great weight. Boelen’s pythons are non-venomous constrictor snakes, therefore despite having a lot of sharp teeth, they are not poisonous.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
A Boelen’s python adult needs a minimum enclosure of 6 feet by 2 feet by 2 feet. The ideal enclosure size for your snake is 6 feet by 2 feet by 3 feet. As much room as you can provide is what your snake requires. You should attempt to choose an enclosure that enables your Boelen’s python to stretch out completely because these reptiles can reach lengths of about eight feet.
A cool side should be kept at 68 degrees, a warm side at 85 degrees, and a basking region at 90 degrees are all necessary for your snake’s cage.
Boelen’s pythons consume rodents, birds, and mammals. Feed live animals such as rabbits, birds, and guinea pigs to an adult snake. Mice and rats can be fed to young Boelen’s pythons. Every seven days, juveniles can be fed one piece of prey.
A 70–80% relative humidity level is ideal for the enclosure. Using an automatic misting system or softly sprinkling the decorations and substrate once or twice a day will keep the enclosure damp.
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