How to Look After a Baby Tree Python

The green tree python, or Morelia viridis, naturally inhabits New Guinea, Northern Australia and some of the other surrounding islands. In adulthood, the snake will reach lengths of around 6 feet and it will perform most of its activities, including eating, mating and hatching eggs, in the tops of trees. An infant tree python requires special care, including an enclosure, food and temperature, to thrive.

Things You'll Need

  • 10- to 20-gallon tank
  • Substrate
  • Shallow water bowl
  • Pinkie or small mouse
  • Rubber glove
  • Heat lamp
  • Plastic spray bottle
  • Disinfecting cleaner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the bottom of the aquarium with a 2- to 3-inch layer of substrate, such as cypress mulch or coconut bark.

    • 2

      Arrange several branches inside the aquarium. This is crucial to allow the tree-dwelling young snake to thrive.

    • 3

      Place a small, shallow water bowl in any of the corners of the enclosure and provide the snake with a constant source of fresh water.

    • 4

      Offer the infant tree python a pinkie or small mouse as food. Wearing a rubber glove, lower the pinkie or small mouse into the enclosure and allow the infant tree python to accept it. Feed the baby python one to two times per week.

    • 5

      Maintain a constant 12-hour light and 12-hour dark cycle for the tree python. During the light 12 hours, keep the enclosure at a constant temperature of between 84 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit with a heat lamp. During the 12-hour dark cycle, the constant temperature must remain between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 6

      Mist the enclosure, including the branches, once a day with cool water. This will provide humidity that will mimic the tree python's natural, tropical environment.

    • 7

      Clean the enclosure once a week, or as needed. Remove the branches and the snake and place them into a temporary enclosure while you replace the substrate and clean the walls of the enclosure with a disinfecting cleaner. Replace the substrate with a fresh layer and place the branches and snake back inside.

    • 8

      Check the aquarium regularly for fecal matter and remove it immediately to keep the baby snake from becoming ill.