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Centralian Python (Morelia bredli )

     Centralian pythons are indigenous to the arid and semi-arid areas of central Australia.  These pythons are usually found near dry rivers or rocky outcroppings.  These pythons are also adept at climbing and can also be found in trees or bushes.  Centralian pythons are medium sized snakes and can reach 5-8 feet in length.  Mature females will lay 13-40 eggs in a clutch and incubation time varies between 65-70 days.  Hatchling Centralian pythons are usually darker and the reddish color becomes more pronounced as the snake matures.  Prehistoric Pets promotes responsible snake ownership and we recommend locking cages that prevent accidental escape.   Large constrictors and other escaped snakes can have a negative impact on the general public which can lead to a ban of snake ownership.

Temperature

     Centralian pythons should be maintained between 88-95 degrees during the day.  Nighttime temperatures need to range between 68-75 degrees.  These snakes come from a dry environment and captive environments should be setup in a similar fashion.  Misting the cage is only necessary when the snake is shedding.  Snakes shed in one complete piece, if yours is shedding in pieces the humidity is too low.

Housing

     Baby Centralian pythons can be kept in 10-29 gallon or larger terrariums.  Ideally, the larger the snake, the more room you want to provide.  Wood cages are an excellent choice to house Centralian pythons and one adult can be housed comfortably in a 4 x 2 x 2 cage.  The cage needs to be setup so there are multiple branches and hiding spots for the snake to feel secure. 

Bedding

     Our recommendation for bedding is bark or reptile cage carpet.  These beddings are easy to clean and are more appealing to the eye than other beddings. 

Food

     Centralian pythons feed on pinkie or fuzzy mice as babies and juveniles.  As your snake grows it will soon move up to adult mice and small rats.  We recommend that you feed baby and juvenile Centralian pythons 1-2 times per week.  Adult pythons can be fed once every 7-10 days to maintain proper body weight.  Like most snakes, Centralian pythons typically will not eat when they are preparing to shed.  After your snake has shed you can return to your normal feeding regiment.  If your snake doesn’t eat make sure you remove the rodent from the cage.  Rodents can bite snakes when they are hungry and can injure or kill your snake. 

Cleaning and Handling

     The terrarium should be cleaned as necessary. Any fecal matter should be cleaned out several times a week. The bedding should be completely changed once a month and fresh clean water should be provided at all times.  The inside of the terrarium can be cleaned out with an appropriate reptile cage cleaner, we recommend Natural Chemistry’s Healthy Habitat. Centralian pythons are usually very docile and can be handled on a daily basis.  Always wash your hands before and after handling them.