Python Species and What You Need to Know Before Keeping Them

Pythons (or python species) are a group with particularly dedicated fans among reptile enthusiasts. The spectrum ranges from small, easy-to-handle ball pythons to large species that can reach several meters in length. However, keeping large species requires considerable commitment and knowledge, and carelessly starting with them leads to misfortune for both the keeper and the individual snake. This article clarifies the main python species and the fundamental mindset you should have before beginning to keep them.

What Are Pythons?

The Pythonidae family is a group of large, non-venomous snakes distributed across the Old World (Africa, Asia, and Australia). Instead of venom, they are constrictors—snakes that kill prey by constricting them with powerful muscles—and their strength should not be underestimated even in smaller species. Among reptile enthusiasts, they are often called "pythons," and they are popular due to the diversity of morphs (color variants) and their stable suitability for keeping (in smaller species only).

Main Species and Characteristics

Ball Python (West African Python, Python regius) is widely appreciated as a beginner species for python keeping. Even as adults, they are around 1–1.8 meters, a manageable size, and their docile temperament and defensive balling behavior are beloved traits. Over 100 morphs are known, and enthusiasts can enjoy distinctive colors and patterns such as spider, panda pied, and yellow belly.

The basic husbandry setup requires a temperature gradient (hot side 32–35°C, cool side 26–28°C) and humidity of 60–80%. An enclosure of at least 90 cm × 60 cm is recommended for adults. Feeding frozen mice or rats once or twice a week is the standard schedule. Refusing food (especially during breeding season) is a famous trait of this species, and well-fed individuals can go several months without eating without issue.

Reticulated Python (Malayopython reticulatus) is the longest of all reptile species, with wild individuals recorded exceeding 8 meters. In captivity, they can reach 6–7 meters, requiring a dedicated enclosure room and handling by two or more people. Temperament varies significantly between individuals; familiar specimens are relatively easy to handle, but the risk of accidents increases as they grow larger.

Burmese Python (Python bivittatus) is also a large species reaching 4–6 meters. Although it was once popular as an easy-to-keep species, many keepers abandon them because they cannot handle the rapid growth rate and final size. In Florida, USA, abandoned individuals have become feral and have caused serious ecological damage, leading to stricter regulations.