Bismarck Ringed Python — Care Sheet & Morphs

Q: How big does an adult Bismarck Ringed Python get?

An adult Bismarck Ringed Python typically measures 1.2–1.8 m.

Husbandry requirements

Bismarck Ringed Python — origin: Endemic to the Bismarck Archipelago (Papua New Guinea): New Britain, New Ireland and neighbouring islands. Humid lowland tropical forests, forest edges and plantations. PROTECTION: the entire family Pythonidae is listed in Appendix II of CITES (regulated trade, documents/permits required). Historically, a large proportion of the animals in the trade were imported WILD-CAUGHT specimens, often stressed, dehydrated and parasitized: strongly favour captive-bred (CB) animals..

Terrarium temperature gradient

Night min22 °C

Cool side24–26 °C

Warm side30–32 °C

A nocturnal, semi-fossorial species: NO intense luminous hot spot required. Create the gradient with a thermostat-regulated heat mat or cable (probe mandatory). Avoid exceeding 33 °C. A natural nighttime drop down to ~22 °C is tolerated.

Enclosure (adult)

120 × 60 × 45 cm

A well-closed and secured horizontal terrarium (a good escaper), with a deep substrate allowing burrowing and several hides.

Minimum dimensions for an adult; larger is preferable. Provide hides on both sides (warm zone and cool zone) and possibly a low branch. Securing the openings is essential, as the species seeks to escape.

Humidity

60–80 %

A humid tropical atmosphere to be maintained consistently, with good ventilation to avoid stagnation and respiratory infections. A humid area (sphagnum) facilitates shedding.

Substrate

Coconut fibreMoist soil/cocoCypress bark (cypress mulch)Sphagnum moss (humid area)

A thick layer (at least 8-12 cm) allowing the animal to burrow. Keep slightly moist without waterlogging; remove soiling and mouldy areas quickly.

UVB

Optional

Not essential as a nocturnal species. Low UVB (Ferguson zone 1) can be beneficial but remains optional. Maintain a regular day/night photoperiod (about 12 h).

Water source

Always available

A large bowl of clean water at all times, wide enough to allow the snake to immerse itself (aids hydration and shedding). Renew frequently and clean to prevent infections.

Origin

Pythonidae

Endemic to the Bismarck Archipelago (Papua New Guinea): New Britain, New Ireland and neighbouring islands. Humid lowland tropical forests, forest edges and plantations. PROTECTION: the entire family Pythonidae is listed in Appendix II of CITES (regulated trade, documents/permits required). Historically, a large proportion of the animals in the trade were imported WILD-CAUGHT specimens, often stressed, dehydrated and parasitized: strongly favour captive-bred (CB) animals.

Feeding & health

Diet

Carnivore (rodents) — Appropriately sized rodents (mice, then small rats depending on size). In the wild: small mammals and lizards, notably skinks.

Adults: 1 prey item every 7 to 14 days; juveniles more frequently. Prey of a diameter close to the widest point of the body. Wild imports often refuse to feed at first (stress) and may require patience and adjustments (scented prey, a calm atmosphere).

Breeding

Oviparous

Clutch 8–15 eggs/young. Maternal incubation is possible; in an incubator, about 30-31 °C for ~55 to 70 days. Spectacular ontogenetic colour change: neonates bright orange with black rings, gradually turning to a dark, strongly iridescent brown (iridescent sheen) in adulthood.

Health watch points

Internal and external parasites, very common in wild specimens (nematodes, protozoa, mites/ticks): quarantine and a veterinary check-up are essential
Respiratory infections (unsuitable temperature or humidity, insufficient ventilation)
Difficult shed / dysecdysis linked to humidity that is too low
Stomatitis ('mouth rot')
Food refusal and regurgitation, especially in stressed wild imports

Morphs & genetics

Registry of 2 documented genes for Bismarck Ringed Python.

Axanthic (Hypothetical) aneryRec
Patternless (Melanistic?)Dom

Pairing calculator

Pick each parent's genotype — clutch probabilities update live. Free, no sign-up.

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Bismarck Ringed Python × Bismarck Ringed Python

Probabilities per gene (independent loci).

Expected clutchSelect at least one gene on a parent.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the most common questions about keeping the bismarck ringed python.

How big does an adult Bismarck Ringed Python get?▾

An adult Bismarck Ringed Python typically measures 1.2–1.8 m (a medium-sized species. females are markedly larger and more massive than males.).

What temperature and humidity does a Bismarck Ringed Python need?▾

A gradient of roughly 24–26 °C on the cool side to 30–32 °C on the warm side. Humidity 60–80 %.

What does a Bismarck Ringed Python eat?▾

Carnivore (rodents): Appropriately sized rodents (mice, then small rats depending on size). In the wild: small mammals and lizards, notably skinks..

Is the Bismarck Ringed Python a good reptile for beginners?▾

Intermediate level. Non-venomous (constrictor). A species that is often nervous and quick to bite, especially neonates and wild-origin specimens. It can be tamed with gentle, brief and regular handling, but some individuals remain skittish. Reserve for keepers with a little experience. Plan ahead: a lifespan of 15–20 yrs.

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