Reticulated Python

(Malayopython reticulatus)

It is the world's longest snake, and listed asleast concernon theIUCN Red Listbecause of its wide distribution. In several countries in its range, it is hunted for its skin, for use intraditional medicine, and for sale aspets.

It is an excellent swimmer, has been reported far out at sea, and has colonized many small islands within its range. It is among thethree heaviestsnakes. Like all pythons, it is a non-venomousconstrictor. Adult humans have been killed (and in at least two reported cases, eaten) by reticulated pythons. On average they live 15-20 years with some individual snakes reaching 25-30 years. The longest confirmed specimen of this species measured nearly 23 ft, most individuals measure about 19 ft. long or less.

Origin and History

This species is native toSouthandSoutheast Asia. The colour and size can vary a great deal among the subspecies described. Geographical location is a good key to establishing the subspecies, as each one has a distinct geographical range.

The reticulated python lives in rainforests, woodlands, and nearby grasslands. It is also associated with rivers and is found in areas with nearby streams and lake.

Keepers should have previous experience with large constrictors to ensure safety to both animal and keeper.

Diet and Needs

Like all snakes, this species is a carnivore. It eats only other animals, and does not eat any plants. They are generalists, and eat just about any prey that they canswallow, smaller snakes eat rats, mice, birds, and small mammals in the wild. In captivity they typically eat mice, rats and larger snakes will eat rabbit also.

The basic rule of thumb for feeding is to give one prey animal with a diameter that roughly matches the snake's diameter once a week. The retic can go two weeks between feedings, but it's best to keep stretches without food to 10 days maximum. It's also important not to feed the python too often. While overfeeding can help it grow quickly, it might develop health issues from this.

Common Health problems

Pneumonia and other respiratory diseases:Respiratory issues are a common ailment among reptiles, often caused by incorrect temperatures in the enclosure.²

They can cause the animal to wheeze when breathing. As a respiratory illness advances, it can cause the snake to secrete a cheesy substance.

Parasites:Mites and other parasites can cause problems with any snake, so it's best to clean their housing on a regular basis and always wash your hands both before and after handling.

Inclusion body disease:IBD is a deadly virus that can affect pythons and boa constrictors.³Signs of the disease include the inability to constrict and the snake being unable to right itself when turned over.

Mouth rot:This is an infection in the snake's mouth that often results from bacteria buildup plus a weakened immune system.²Symptoms include loss of appetite and pus or drainage from the mouth or nose. It's important to have a veterinarian treat mouth rot promptly before the infection spreads to other parts of the body, such as the esophagus and lungs.

Pushing:This is a behavioural issue, but it can lead to health problems. Reticulated pythons that regularly push their head against their enclosure can injure themselves. It can cause the head to swell, as well as other issues, such as mouth rot. If you notice pushing, clean the enclosure and make sure the temperature is correct. Retics tend to push when they are uncomfortable.

Housing

As you can imagine, the longest snake in the world will need some room to stretch out.A fully grown reticulated python needs housing that's at least 3 feet wide, 6 to 8 feet long, and 2 feet high. But remember that a young python can become intimidated when given too much space. Some owners choose to have enclosures of varying sizes that the snake can grow into. Outfitting the enclosure with rocks, plants, and other decor also will make it seem smaller and more comfortable for the snake.

All housing should be equipped with at least one hiding spot. For a young snake, this can be a small box with an opening. But larger retics might need something a bit more rugged, such as a hollow log. The python will also need a dish of clean water for drinking and potentially soaking. The dish should be solid enough that the python cannot tip or break it.

The enclosure should be maintained at about 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit with at least one basking spot that is 88 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit. Having spots with multiple temperatures in the housing will allow the retic to balance its own temperature. There are a number of acceptableheat sources, including ceramic heaters and basking bulbs, placed outside the cage.

These snakes do not require special UV lighting. But their enclosure should have ambient light that mimics a natural day-night pattern.

Reticulated pythons prefer humidity levels between 50 to 70 percent. The water dish in the enclosure will provide some humidity, and you can lightly mist the area if you need to raise the humidity level. Regularly monitor the humidity with a reptile hygrometer.

The bottom of the enclosure should be lined with an appropriatebedding, or substrate. The substrate helps to maintain some humidity in the enclosure, and it can mimic the look and feel of the snake's natural environment. Options include newspaper, paper towels, and flat indoor-outdoor carpet.

Maintenance

Replace soiled substrate as needed (spot clean), and do a full change of the substrate at least every month. This is vital for the snake’s health.

Exercise

Make sure you handle your snake as often as possible once a day would be ideal. You could put your snake in the bath for a while as they love the water. You could teach them to climb the stairs also.

Enrichment

It’s essential to try and create an environment for the snake that represents its natural habitat. A hide should be available, rocks branches and a large water bowl to bathe in.

Temperament

Reticulated pythons are known for having a nasty temperament in the wild, but captive-bred retics (as they're nicknamed) can make great pets with the proper care and handling. But because of their spunky personality and sheer size, reticulated pythons are only recommended for those who have experience with snakes, especially those who have owned largepet snakes.

In addition, reticulated pythons are known for their love of eating, so wash your hands before handling to avoid the retic mistaking your fingers for food. You should also show the snake your empty hand before handling it, and it's a good idea to pet the snake prior to picking it up to ensure a calmer reptile.

Young retics have a greater tendency to bite, which should reduce as they gain trust in their owner and become acclimated to handling. When holding a young snake, keep your fingers closed and palms flat to give it less opportunity to bite.

Difference between Male and Female

You may be able to tell what gender your snake isby the shape of their tail. Male snakes have reproductive organs called hemipenes. The hemipenes are tubular-shaped organs that sit inside the snake's body just below the cloacal opening. As a result, a male snake's tail is usually thicker and longer than a female's