How to Care for a White Lipped Python

The white lipped python, also known as the D'Alberts or D'Albertis python, is a non-venomous constrictor found in New Guinea and the surrounding islands. It has a black head with a brown-, gold- or rust- colored body and gets its name from the distinctive white coloring along its mouth. Adult snakes can reach an average of 4 to 5 feet in length, although some varieties can reach up to 8 or 9 feet. White lipped pythons have polished scales that give this snake an iridescent shine. It is a high-strung and bad-tempered species that requires a fair amount of experience to handle properly. It also can be a fragile species, so novice keepers should think twice before acquiring one.

Things You'll Need

  • Snake Habitat
  • Bark, Eco Earth or a similar substrate
  • One shallow plastic tub
  • Two or more medium to high plastic tubs
  • Tree Branches (Plastic or Wood)
  • Heat Lamp/UVB Light Source
  • Thermometer
  • Humidity meter
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Clear an appropriate area for your snake's habitat. Baby white lipped pythons can be kept in a large aquarium. Larger snakes require larger habitats, so you will have to upgrade your habitat as your snake grows. An adult python should be kept in a habitat measuring at least 4 feet wide by 2 feet deep.

    • 2

      Create a comfortable environment for your snake. Line the bottom of the habitat with bark, Eco Earth or a similar substrate. Wet the substrate until it is damp. This will help with the humidity levels in the habitat. White lipped pythons like to burrow, so use enough substrate to create a thick layer and keep it loose enough to allow burrowing.

    • 3

      Place the shallow plastic tub in the habitat. Fill it three-fourths of the way full to give your snake a place to soak. As your snake grows you will have to use larger tubs in the habitat.

    • 4

      Cut an opening in at least two medium to high plastic tubs and invert them in the habitat. This will create hiding areas for your snake.

    • 5

      Place tree branches in the habitat to give your snake places to climb.

    • 6

      Install a heat lamp and UVB light source in the habitat. Temperature under the lamp should be in the mid-90s. The rest of the habitat should have a daytime temperature between 85 and 90 degrees. Nighttime temperatures should between 75 and 80 degrees. White lipped pythons like humidity. Keep the humidity level of the habitat between 75 and 90 percent. Install a thermometer and a humidity meter to monitor the levels in the habitat.

    • 7

      Create a feeding schedule for your snake. Babies and juveniles should be fed baby mice one to two times a week. Snakes 6 months to 1 year old can be fed baby rats. Adults should be fed one or two medium-sized rats every seven to 10 days.

    • 8

      Create a daily, weekly and monthly maintenance schedule. Refresh your snake's water and check the temperature and humidity every day. Adjust them as needed. Clean the habitat once week or as often as needed. Once a month give your habitat a thorough examination and make any necessary repairs. Keeping your snake's habitat clean will help keep your snake healthy.