Care Sheet

Dwarf Reticulated Python (Python reticulatus)

Common names: Dwarf Reticulated Python

Size: Dwarfs range between 2.1-3.0m (7-10ft) and 1.5-1.8m (5-6ft) is average for Super Dwarfs.

Age: 20-30 years is average, however, this species have been known to live 40 or more years.

Difficulty: Medium. Unlike their mainland cousins, the various Dwarf Island locales stay a more manageable size. However, these animals tend to be more skittish. Dwarf Reticulated Pythons still have a very strong feeding response and should be handled with care.

Temperature: 80-85°F (26-30°C)

Humidity: Medium to high. The enclosure should be sprayed daily to maintain humidity. Water needs to be changed everyday.

Housing: 150x60x60 (5ft) is adequate for an "average" Dwarf Reticulated Python, this species is incredibly strong so any enclosure designed for keeping reticulated pythons should be very strong. Small plastic enclosures such as breeder boxes and small faunariums are suitable for hatchlings and juveniles.

Heating: Dependent on what enclosures you are heating. Plastic enclosures can be heated using heat mats, whereas wooden vivariums or similar housing should be space heated using bulbs, ceramic heaters or heat plates.

The three most important things to remember when heating any enclosure are:

  • Ensure the animal cannot burn itself with the correct fitting of the heat source and protecting it with a guard.
  • Choose the appropriate wattage for the size enclosure. This can help further reduce the risk burns and overheating (it can also help save energy!)
  • Always using an appropriate thermostat. (Refer to Thermostat Guide)

Substrate: Orchid bark is a widely used medium for keeping Dwarf Reticulated Pythons on. However Aspen and wood chip can also be used. Unprinted newspaper is perfect as a hygienic flooring, although it does need to be changed quite regularly.

Diet: Defrosted rats, and adult Dwarf Reticulated Pythons will eat very large rats and rabbits.

Natural Distribution: Indonesian Islands of Kayaudi, Jampea, Madu, Kalatoa and Buton.

Things to note: Super Dwarf and Dwarf Reticulated Pythons are still not small snakes and their size and temperaments should be taken in to account before purchasing such an animal.