Python anchietae

Secure terrestrial and saxicolous (rock-dwelling) terrarium, oriented lengthwise, fitted with stable rock structures, hides and low branches for climbing.

Minimum dimensions for an adult; bigger is always preferable. A rock-dwelling species that enjoys climbing and anchoring itself on rocks: wedge every stone firmly to prevent any crushing. Provide at least two tight hides (warm side and cool side) and a well-locked lid, as this is a powerful snake and a good escape artist.

A rather dry, well-ventilated environment. Maintain 40–60%, with occasional peaks during sheds. Provide a humid hide (sphagnum moss) at shedding time to avoid incomplete sheds. A constantly soaked substrate promotes infections.

Favour a substrate that stays dry on the surface while allowing slight moisture retention deeper down. Avoid dusty or resinous substrates (pine, cedar), which are toxic to reptiles. Promptly remove droppings and soiled areas.

Not strictly essential (a nocturnal snake that can live without UVB with supplementation), but low UVB (Ferguson zone 1–2, ~5% tube) is beneficial and consistent with its desert/rocky origin. Always provide shaded and hiding areas.

A large container of clean water available at all times, heavy enough not to be tipped over and large enough to allow an occasional soak. Refresh the water regularly and clean the bowl to prevent infections.

South-western Africa: Angola and the extreme north-west of Namibia, in arid to semi-arid rocky habitats (outcrops, scree, rocky savannahs).

Carnivore (rodents) — Mice and rats of a suitable size (prey width ≈ the snake's widest point), preferably thawed/warmed.

A more active metabolism than the ball python's: feed juveniles every 5–7 days, adults every 10–14 days. Monitor the body condition, as this species can put on fat; adjust the frequency to avoid obesity.

Clutch 4–10 eggs/young. A small clutch of relatively large eggs. Breeding is triggered by a seasonal cycle (a winter thermal/night-time drop). Incubation of about 55–70 days at around 30–31 °C; the female may coil around the eggs to brood them. A species still rarely bred: reserved for experienced keepers.

• Respiratory infections (an environment that is too cold, too humid or poorly ventilated)
• Incomplete shed / dysecdysis (humidity too low, no humid hide)
• Bacterial dermatitis / scale rot (soaked substrate, insufficient hygiene)
• External parasites (Ophionyssus-type mites) and internal parasites
• Stomatitis (mouth rot) and, in cases of overfeeding, obesity