02/12/2025
Three things you must understand BEFORE you bring your Royal Python home:
1) Outside, on one end of the enclosure, you will need an under tank heat pad on a thermostat as a secondary heat source to maintain the proper temperature (80-90) for digestion. Avoid direct sunlight or against exterior walls. Do not place a heat source inside the enclosure.
The best location is the quietest, warmest room of your house (70-80) as a primary heat source and give 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months to acclimate. Limiting handling to while u are cleaning is best so as not to disturb him when he is chilling between meals.
2) An unground animal, it doesnt need any special overhead lights for basking or heat. Supply hides on both the cool side and the warm side with lots of fake plants throughout, so he feels like he is hiding and can escape underground. A wide enclosure large enough the animal can self regulate for temperature and solitude will help a Royal Python feel comfortable in captivity.
Make sure your tank is secure with a locking top. All night the animal will try to escape and will explore if given the opportunity. You will need to get a misting jug and some coco husk for substrate. With a mesh top u will have to spray every day lightly.
3) Supply fresh drinking water every other day. Dont offer food right away, wait until you see them out looking for it at night. They are nocturnal so feed in the evening or early morning while its dark in his enclosure and only handle the animal during the day, even then, only occasionally.
It can take up to 14 days to digest meals. Feed accordingly to your animals size. Small, manageable, meals never larger than a weaned rat or two even for an adult. Never leave a live animal as a food source unattended with your Royal Python.
Consider your options:
Many people choose to keep Royal Pythons in an up to date rack system specifically designed for their needs. A modern and sophisticated solution to all these issues.