Blood Python

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Short, thick, and usually still

Blood pythons, Python brongersmai, are the red, orange, or brown short-tailed pythons from Southeast Asia. Adults are often 4 to 6 feet and far heavier than a corn snake of that length. Lifespan is 20 to 25 years. Care is intermediate. Temperament is docile once established, which matches many captive-bred animals and not the old wild-caught imports.

They sit. A cage of about 4 by 2 feet with a low profile fits the way they live better than a tall display. Temperatures of 78 to 88°F and humidity of 60 to 70 percent are a fair band. A large water bowl and a hide they can touch on all sides reduce the strike-from-surprise problem. Substrate that holds a little moisture helps sheds. Soaked, swampy bedding causes belly scale rot. There is a middle.

Rats, not a power-feeding contest

They eat rats. A blood python does not need a huge meal to look impressive. Obesity is common and ugly on this body shape. Feed a rat that leaves a modest bulge, then wait. Tong-feed. Hands enter the cage from the side, where the snake can see them, not from above like a hawk.

Buy captive-bred. A snake with bubbly saliva or a long fast and weight loss needs a reptile vet via ARAV.

Blood python questions

Are blood pythons aggressive?

Wild-caught animals earned a biting reputation. Captive-bred blood pythons are often sedentary and tolerant. A startled snake on the ground can still strike. Move slowly, and support the whole body.

How much space does a short python need?

Give them 4 by 2 by 1.5 feet. Length is only part of the animal. Adults are heavy. Give floor space and a wide hide, not a tall empty tank.

What humidity do they need?

Aim for 60 to 70 percent. A stuck shed means the humid hide is too dry, even if the room gauge looks fine.