Royal Python Hibernation

Royal pythons, commonly called ball pythons, are constrictors native to Africa. Unlike some other pythons, they don't grow longer than 6 feet. Unlike many other animals, pythons brumate instead of hibernating. During the period of brumation, their body temperature is lower and their metabolism is slower. Though it is not necessary to brumate or hibernate royal pythons in captivity, some will voluntarily begin eating less during the winter months.

  1. Wild Brumation

    • In the ball python's native environment, temperatures don't normally drop low enough to necessitate brumation. In fact, the winter months are this snake's breeding season. They tend to eat less in preparation for breeding and may eat additional food to build strength before entering a hunger strike. During rare cold snaps and in inclement weather, pythons may respond by entering brumation. During this period, the animal's body temperature drops, helping it to conserve energy in taxing environments.

    Risks of Brumation

    • Because pythons only brumate in extraordinary conditions, forcing them into brumation in captivity is risky. Only healthy royal pythons will survive the process of brumation, and the loss of food is taxing to their bodies.

    Brumating to Breed

    • Some python owners brumate their snakes to encourage them to breed, and this is one of the few situations in which brumating a captive snake is justifiable. You will need to lower the temperature in your snake's enclosure to room temperature or lower. Consult with a reptile veterinarian before brumating your snake, and limit the period of brumation to three or four weeks. Your veterinarian will provide specific directions about the brumation needs of your snake.

    Outdoor Brumation

    • Owners who live in warm climates frequently house their snakes outdoors. Because the winter temperature in most areas of the U.S. is lower than in the snake's native environment, pythons will stop eating if kept outside. Pythons should not be brumated for the entire winter. Instead, bring your python indoors every few weeks to warm up. Because there are risks associated with brumation, the better strategy is to simply move your snake inside during the winter months.