Water Python

Looks how to spot one

scales

The body is thick and muscular with a long head that is slightly set off from the neck. The scales are smooth and have a beautiful iridescent sheen that looks like a rainbow in sunlight, but in the dark the snake appears a plain dark brown or black. The belly and throat are pale yellow to creamy white, and the upper lip scales are light grey-brown with dark spots.124

Personality what they are like

Water pythons are generally calm and shy snakes. In the wild they are nocturnal and secretive, hiding in hollow logs, burrows or dense vegetation during the day. When startled they usually flee into water rather than attack. In captivity they can become quite docile with regular gentle handling, though like all pythons they may be defensive if they feel threatened. They are not venomous and are constrictors.123

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Water pythons are mostly nocturnal and do not require a large amount of daily exercise. However they benefit from climbing enrichment such as sturdy branches and vines, and should have access to a large water area for swimming. A vivarium with a length at least 1.5 times the snake's length and good height for climbing is recommended.14

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Water pythons are relatively low-maintenance. The enclosure should be misted every few days to maintain high humidity (around 70%). A large, sturdy water bowl must always be available and cleaned regularly. Shedding is normal; if the snake has trouble shedding, a warm soak can help. UVB lighting is not essential but a low-spectrum fluorescent globe can be used for viewing. Heat mats and heat rocks are not recommended because they can cause burns.14

Home where they are happiest

A glass vivarium is suitable. The enclosure should be at least 1.5 times the snake's length in length, and height should be generous to allow climbing. Provide a temperature gradient: a basking spot at 35°C and a cool end around 25°C. Humidity should be kept high (around 70%) by misting and placing the water bowl under the heat lamp. Substrate options include moss, leaf litter, recycled paper cat litter, paper towel or wooden shavings. Provide plenty of hiding places (caves, hollow logs) and climbing branches. A swimming area is appreciated. Water pythons are not venomous and are legal to keep in many countries, but always check local laws.14

Food basics what goes in the bowl

In captivity water pythons eat frozen-thawed mice, rats and chickens of appropriate size. Juveniles should be fed weekly, adults every 2-3 weeks. Always feed dead prey to avoid injury to the snake.14

Company who they like around

Water pythons are solitary animals and should be housed alone. They do not need companionship and may become stressed if kept with other snakes. Handling should be gentle and regular to maintain tameness, but always respect the snake's mood.1

The story where it all began

The water python was first described by German naturalist Wilhelm Peters in 1873. It is native to northern Australia and Papua New Guinea, where it lives in freshwater rivers, creeks, swamps and lagoons. It is Australia's most aquatic python and is thought to be the original 'Rainbow Serpent' of Aboriginal mythology, said to have created rivers and valleys. In the pet trade it is valued for its beautiful iridescent scales and generally calm temperament, though it requires experienced keepers due to its size and specific humidity needs.123

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN

Least Concern2