Burmese Python

Looks how to spot one

Scales

Burmese pythons have a heavy, muscular body covered in smooth scales. Their pattern is a series of dark brown blotches outlined in black against a lighter tan or cream background, with two distinct horizontal lines running across the head from eye to eye.25

Personality what they are like

Burmese pythons are known for their calm and gentle nature, which makes them popular among experienced reptile keepers. However, they are powerful constrictors and can become defensive if startled or mishandled. Hatchlings may be nippy, but with regular gentle handling they usually settle down. Due to their immense size and strength, they require respect and careful handling, often needing multiple people for safety.326

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Burmese pythons are mostly sedentary and do not require daily exercise. They need a large enclosure with plenty of floor space to move around, and they benefit from climbing branches when young. They are excellent swimmers and should have access to a large water pool for soaking and swimming.35

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Burmese pythons require a clean enclosure with regular spot cleaning and full substrate changes. They need a large, sturdy water bowl that is changed frequently. Shedding can be aided by maintaining proper humidity and providing a rough surface to rub against. Nails may need occasional trimming, and the enclosure should be checked for any sharp edges or hazards.64

Home where they are happiest

Burmese pythons need a very large enclosure with secure locking doors, as they are strong and can push open weak latches. The enclosure should have a temperature gradient with a basking spot around 88-92°F (31-33°C) and a cooler side around 78-80°F (25-27°C). Humidity should be kept high, around 60-80%. A large water pool is essential for soaking and swimming. Substrate can be cypress mulch or coconut husk to retain humidity. Due to their size, they are not suitable for beginners and may require special permits in some jurisdictions.643

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Burmese pythons are carnivores and eat a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles in the wild. In captivity, they are typically fed appropriately sized rodents, rabbits, or chickens. Hatchlings start with mice, and as they grow, the prey size increases. Feeding should be done with tongs to avoid accidental bites, and the snake should be handled gently after feeding to prevent regurgitation.12

Company who they like around

Burmese pythons are solitary animals and do not require companionship. They can become accustomed to handling, but due to their size, handling should be done with caution and ideally with another person present. They are not suitable for homes with small children or small pets, as they may see them as prey. In some regions, keeping Burmese pythons is regulated or prohibited due to their invasive potential and the danger they pose.367

The story where it all began

Burmese pythons have been kept as pets for decades, prized for their attractive pattern and generally calm disposition. They were once considered a subspecies of the Indian python but are now recognised as a distinct species. Their popularity in the pet trade led to accidental and intentional releases, particularly in Florida, where they have established a breeding population in the Everglades since at least 2000. This has caused significant ecological damage, with declines in native mammal populations. Due to their enormous size and potential danger, they are now subject to regulations in many areas, and some experts advise that they are better suited to professional institutions than private homes.176

Recognised by the official bits

Popularity Burmese pythons are one of the most commonly sold large snake species in the pet trade, despite their size and care requirements.2