Burmese Python Snake Facts

Python Molurus Bivttatus, the Burmese Python, is native to Southeast Asian countries. The python has been historically hunted for its skin as well as its blood and gall bladder for folk medicinal remedies. Owning and caring for a Burmese Python is a long-term and expensive responsibility.

  1. Age and Size

    • The Burmese Python can live over 25 years in captivity and reach 200 pounds with the girth of a telephone pole.

    Natural Environment

    • The Burmese Python thrives in the tropical rain forest. When the python is young, it will prefer the trees; however, when it grows too large, it will take to the ground and the water. Pythons are excellent swimmers.

    The Everglades Burmese Python

    • Because some hobbyists cannot handle the responsibility of the care of a python, many are released into the wild. Due to the unauthorized release, the python can disrupt the natural food chain, which leads native animals, such as the American Alligator, to face their own extinction.

    Diseases

    • Pythons exposed to too high or too low humidity risk infections during the shedding of their old skin. There is a fatal disease known as Inclusion Body Disease (IBD), which infects the central nervous system of the python and is transmitted by the spider mite.

    Housing

    • Artificial grass is an excellent choice as a habitat floor covering as it is easy to clean. Never use cedar chips, as they are toxic to the snake. A standard incandescent light can create a basking spot for the python. Avoid host rocks, which can cause burns to the underside of the snake.