Husbandry requirements
Pygmy Python — origin: Endemic to the arid, rocky Pilbara region of north-western Western Australia; it frequently occupies termite mounds (termitaria) and rock crevices. All Pythonidae are listed in CITES Appendix II (Annex B within the EU): sale requires proper documentation. The species is additionally protected under Australian law, which bans the export of wildlife; specimens available outside Australia therefore come from captive-bred lineages (no legal wild collection — be wary of any dubious origin)..
Terrarium temperature gradient
Establish a clear thermal gradient, with a warm basking/belly-heat zone and a distinctly cooler side. A moderate night-time drop is beneficial (do not let it fall too low for prolonged periods). Always control the heat source with a thermostat and protect the animal from any direct contact with a heating element (risk of burns).
A well-ventilated glass terrarium or PVC vivarium with a secure closure (a small species, yet able to escape through the slightest opening).
A terrarium with the recommended minimum floor space suits an adult; more is always beneficial. A terrestrial/saxicolous species: prioritise floor area, but provide some climbing features (branches, stable rock stacks). Essential: at least two well-fitted hides (one on the warm side, one on the cool side) and a humid hide to aid shedding.
A species of arid habitats: keep a rather dry environment. Nonetheless provide a humid hide (moistened moss/sphagnum) and temporarily raise the humidity during shedding phases to prevent incomplete sheds.
A dry, absorbent, dust-free substrate. A shallow layer allows light burrowing. Remove droppings immediately and make sure the substrate does not stay permanently damp (risk of dermatitis/scale rot).
Not essential, since this is a nocturnal species. A low UVB output (low UV index, a low-intensity tube) on a regular day/night cycle is still beneficial and is never harmful as long as shaded areas are available. Maintain a moderate photoperiod.
A bowl of clean, fresh water available at all times, large enough to let the animal soak occasionally; refresh and clean it regularly.
Endemic to the arid, rocky Pilbara region of north-western Western Australia; it frequently occupies termite mounds (termitaria) and rock crevices. All Pythonidae are listed in CITES Appendix II (Annex B within the EU): sale requires proper documentation. The species is additionally protected under Australian law, which bans the export of wildlife; specimens available outside Australia therefore come from captive-bred lineages (no legal wild collection — be wary of any dubious origin).
Feeding & health
Carnivore (rodents in captivity) — Pinky mice for juveniles, then appropriately sized (small) mice for adults. In the wild, it feeds mainly on small lizards and geckos.
Thawed prey whose diameter does not exceed the widest part of the snake. Juveniles: fed more frequently; adults: fed less often. A small species prone to obesity: do not overfeed. Some reluctant juveniles will start feeding if the prey is rubbed with the scent of a lizard/gecko ('scented' prey).
Clutch 2–6 eggs/young. A very small clutch of eggs that are relatively large in proportion to the female's size. The female coils around her clutch and broods it. Incubation lasts several weeks at a warm temperature. A slight winter cooling (brumation) stimulates breeding. Do not breed females that are too young, too small or not sufficiently well-conditioned: the risk of egg retention (dystocia) is real in this small species.
- Respiratory infections (too cold or too humid an environment, poor ventilation)
- Incomplete shedding / dysecdysis (insufficient humidity, no humid hide)
- Obesity and regurgitation linked to overfeeding or prey that is too large
- Mites (snake mites) and external parasites
- Stomatitis (mouth rot) and bacterial dermatitis / scale rot on overly damp substrate
Morphs & genetics
Registry of 4 documented genes and 2 named combos for Pygmy Python.
- Albino (T-) amelanisticRec
- Axanthic aneryRec
- Granite / Marble isabella (sometimes confused)Dom
- Hypomelanistic ghostDom
Pairing calculator
Pick each parent's genotype — clutch probabilities update live. Free, no sign-up.
Pygmy Python × Pygmy Python
Probabilities per gene (independent loci).
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the most common questions about keeping the pygmy python.
How big does an adult Pygmy Python get?▾
What temperature and humidity does a Pygmy Python need?▾
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