Description:
Scientific name: Python bivittatus
Life span: Around 20 years
Although Burmese pythons, which are enormous constrictors that may reach lengths of over 20 feet, are typically trapped in Florida, they typically measure between 6 and 10 feet long. They are bigger as adults than practically all local snakes. Burmese pythons often have a tan tint with dark spots on the back and flanks.
Native Region/Habitat
The Burmese Python can be found in all of Southern and Southeast Asia, including Fujian, Jiangxi, Guangdong, Hainan, Guangxi, and Yunnan in southern China, as well as eastern India, southeastern Nepal, western Bhutan, southeastern Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It is also found in northern continental Malaysia.
Behavior:
The majority of Burmese pythons spend their nights in the forests. They can be found both on the ground and in trees when they are small, but as they get bigger, they tend to limit most of their movements to the ground. Additionally, they have great swimming abilities and can submerge themselves for up to 30 minutes. The bulk of the time, Burmese pythons hide out in the vegetation. The Burmese Python may hibernate in a hollow tree, a hole in the riverbank, or under rocks for a few months during the cold season in the northern regions of its territory. Brumation differs from hibernation in terms of biology. The habit entails preparing both the male and female reproductive organs for the forthcoming breeding season, but it also has similar advantages, allowing organisms to survive the winter without moving. Florida residents also experience brumation.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
For the select few who have the skills and facilities to care for a snake that may grow to a length of 15 to 20 feet, Burmese pythons can make wonderful pets. The lanky 2-foot hatchlings are the ideal size for attracting reptile owners as pets. They are simple to feed because they are large enough to consume adult mice right out of the egg. Their silky smooth skin and lovely patterns are very attractive. In captivity, Burmese pythons are also simple to reproduce.
For a juvenile snake, a 55-gallon tank would do, but as it gets older, you’ll need a larger, more durable habitat. After the first couple of years, possibilities include adapting a sizable closet or room for your snake or building custom Plexiglass and wood cages.
Burmese pythons, which are rainforest natives, require a daytime temperature of 85 to 88 F and a basking area temperature of 90 to 93 F. At night, the temperature can fall to 78 to 80 F.
These snakes require a 10- to 12-hour light cycle (10 hours in winter, 12 in summer). That should be adequate lighting if the sunshine coming in via your windows is sufficient. If not, turn on an incandescent light for 10 to 12 hours and take into consideration the extra heat it generates inside the enclosure.
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