A Python's Environment

Pythons are nonvenomous snakes that are native to parts of Africa and Asia and live in captivity in other places such as the United States. They are found in a range of habitats in the wild as well as being kept as pets and in zoos. A python's environment will differ based on whether it is in captivity or the wilderness; keepers of pythons must be aware of a number of factors relating to the snake's environment for their pet's well-being.

  1. Types of Habitat

    • Pythons thrive across a range of environments, depending on their breed. Burmese pythons can be found in jungles and in marshes, where they slither through the grasses, while other pythons, such as the Australian water python, frequent wet areas such as swamps and forests that contain rivers. Some pythons stray close to farmland, where they can prey on the livestock and mammals found there.

    Behavior in Wild

    • In their natural habitat, pythons are typically found either in trees or swimming through water, since they have the physical prowess to do both successfully. Pythons are able to swim for up to half an hour without needing air, and head into wetlands such as swamps to hunt for a variety of prey. These snakes also look for prey in trees, but as they grow older, their increased weight restricts them in this activity.

    Temperature

    • The temperature of the habitat of a python in captivity needs to be carefully regulated. The gradient of its habitat should rise from 68 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit by placing a source of heating at one end of the python's enclosure. Add a perch to the appropriate end for added warmth, and fit UV lights to enable heat at night.

    Housing

    • The exact nature of housing can vary, as long as the snake has air holes and can't escape, but many pet owners prefer to keep their pythons in aquariums. You can purchase these from pet stores. Fit python aquariums with screen lids.

    Enclosure Objects

    • Within its housing, a python will require a number of hiding places for shade, such as a hollowed out log or a cardboard box. Pythons need a ready supply of water when kept in captivity. For pet owners this involves getting a dish or container that can't easily be knocked over, and that the snake can soak into. For lining the bottom of a python's enclosure, many owners go for gravel, newspaper or pine or cypress mulch. Other items found in a python enclosure include a rough object to aid with skin shredding and climbing materials such as plumbing pipes.