Description
Jungle Carpet Python
Scientific Name: Morelia spilota cheynei
Difficulty Level: Beginner with some prior reptile experience / Intermediate
Size (Total Adult Length): 4-6ft
Caring for a Jungle Carpet Python involves providing an appropriate environment, diet, and routine care to ensure their well-being and longevity. These snakes are popular due to their striking appearance, semi-arboreal nature and the fact that they will often ‘perch’ on a branch make these a great display snake.
Enclosure
Enclosures should be large enough to provide a thermal gradient, a minimum of two hides (one at the cool side and one on the warm side) this helps your snake feel secure whilst still being able to thermoregulate. The enclosure would also require a water bowl and some decor ie branches,cork bark,fake plants. A minimum of a 4ftx3ft(high)x2ft(depth) is recommended for an adult Jungle Carpet Python.
Substrate options such as orchid bark, coconut coir and husk make for easy spot cleaning. Occasionally changing around or adding new hides/branches or foliage helps aid enrichment and boredom as these snakes will appreciate multiple climbing opportunities.
Temperature and Lighting
The ideal temperature gradient for a Jungle Carpet Python enclosure ranges from 75°F
(24°c) on the cool end with a basking spot of around 88-92°f (31-33°c). Temperatures should always be controlled by a thermostat.
Night-time temperatures can drop to 74-77°F (23-25°c) across the enclosure . UVB lighting can benefit their overall health and well-being. Avoid placing the cage near windows where direct sunlight can overheat the enclosure.
Diet In captivity, Jungle Carpet Pythons should be fed rodents, typically mice or rats that are
appropriately sized for the snake. Starting with fuzzy mice for younger snakes and
transitioning to larger prey as they grow. Feeding can range from once a fortnight for adults to more frequently (every 7 days) for growing juveniles. It's advisable to feed pre-killed or frozen-thawed prey to avoid injury to the snake.
Water and Humidity
A bowl of fresh water should always be provided. Jungle Carpet Pythons humidity levels
should be maintained at a range of 40% to 80%, a humidity fluctuation within these
parameters can be achieved by lightly misting the enclosure on occasions (ie night-time) to mimic seasons of higher rainfall. Misting can be increased further during shedding periods to facilitate the process.
Handling and Temperament
Regular, gentle handling can help your Jungle Carpet Python become more accustomed to human interaction. Hatchlings can have a tendency to be defensive however they do
generally mellow out with age. Avoid handling during shedding periods to prevent stress.
General Care
Inspect the enclosure daily and spot clean as necessary. Enclosures should regularly be disinfected with a reptile safe disinfectant and substrate replaced. Monitor your snake's health, watching for signs of scale/shedding issues, obesity, refusal to eat, lethargy, respiratory issues or other health concerns. Creating an enriching environment with hides and structures can promote natural behaviours and ensure your snake's well-being.
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