Royal Python Care Sheet

Scientific/Latin Name
Python regius

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Summary	Royal Pythons are probably the most popular snake from the python family. They are also one of the smallest, reaching a moderate 4 feet in length, so they are much easier to house and handle than its larger relatives. In America they are known as the Ball Python due to their inclination to curl up in a ball when threatened instead of biting to defend themselves. It is this shy behaviour that has given them their docile reputation.
Essentials	2 - 4 foot Vivarium Tight, screened lid Hide Orchid Bark Large Water Dish Rocks or logs Undertank heating required
Recommended Extras	Heat Lamp ( Plus Guard ) Dimming Thermostat Artificial/Silk Plants
General	Royal Pythons originate from the sub Sahara regions of Africa. Though they do not tolerate desert conditions, too high a humidity can cause skin problems and can create an enviroment where parasites like lice will thrive. Keep the humidity in their hide between 65% and 75% by giving it a daily spray and only spray the rest of the vivarium lightly to simulate dew.
Housing	A baby/juvenile royal python will live quite happily in a 2 foot tank. Keeping a young python in an enclosure much larger than this can cause them stress. When they have reached between 2 -3 foot you can then upgrade them to a 3 - 4 foot vivarium and this should be an ample size for adults as well. A heat mat will be needed and this should cover approximately 1/3 of the tank floor. Provide several hiding places on both sides of the tank so the Python can regulate their body temperature. Royal Pythons are very strong climbers so provide some strong branches or driftwood for them to explore. We recommend using orchid bark as the substrate as it holds humidity well and creates a more natural look and feel to the vivarium. Many people prefer to simply use newspaper as a substrate since it is more sterile and easier to clean though we believe it is important to provide the most natural enviroment for your snake as possible.
Diet	Juvenile Royal Pythons will eat mice "fluffs" or larger juveniles my prefer rat "pups". At this age they need to be fed once a week. Royal Pythons can be trickier to feed than Cornsnakes or Kingsnakes. The best method for feeding royal pythons is to use feeding tongs and dangle the prey around the snakes mouth. Some pythons will immeadiately latch onto the prey and will feed normally though sometimes it may take a few minutes for the snake to take an interest. This is quite normal and the best thing to do is be patient. If the python doesn't feed that day try again using the same method a few days later. Mineral Supplements are essential.
Cleaning	Wash out the water and food dishes daily. Place the snake in an escape proof container while cleaning the tank. A disinfectant designed for reptiles can be used to disinfect the tank. Rinse well with hot water and dry thoroughly. If the substrate is lined with newspaper change them when soiled. If you are using Orchid Bark you can simply "spot clean" the tank as it is needed and the completely swap the substrate every month or so.
Health	Providing they are purchased in good condition, Royal Pythons are hardy pets which have relatively few problems. Occasionally they may have a problem removing all their skin while shedding. If you can see this to be the case give your python a bath in luke warm water and you will find it will come off quite easily. DO NOT try to pull the skin off. This can cause seriously injure your python. If it needs help shedding then use a damp flannel cloth and gently try to rub the skin off. Do not force it as this can pull off the soft flesh underneath. Treat any cuts or grazes with tea... yes, tea it is a natural disinfectant!