[Pied Royal Python female 2022
Caring for a pied royal python (or any ball python) in the UK requires proper husbandry to ensure their health and well-being. Heres a detailed care guide:
Enclosure
Size:
Hatchlings: 2ft x 1ft x 1ft (minimum)
Adults: 3ft x 2ft x 2ft (larger is better)
Material: Glass or wooden vivariums with good ventilation.
Temperature & Heating
Warm Side: 30–32°C (86–90°F)
Cool Side: 24–27°C (75–80°F)
Night Temperature: No lower than 22°C (72°F)
Heating Options:
Heat mat with thermostat (for smaller enclosures)
Ceramic heat emitter or deep heat projector (for larger vivariums)
Heat lamp (covered with a guard and controlled with a thermostat)
Monitor temperatures with digital thermometers.
Humidity
Ideal Range: 50-60% (can increase to 70% during shedding)
Boosting Humidity:
Use a large water bowl
Mist the enclosure lightly if needed
Add moss in a hide
Use a humidity gauge to monitor levels
Lighting
Optional UVB: 5-7% UVB can benefit their health but essential if diet and supplementation are correct.
Light Cycle: 12 hours light, 12 hours dark.
Substrate
Best Options:
Coconut husk
Orchid bark
Aspen bedding
Avoid: Sand or excessively dusty substrates.
Hides & Enrichment
At Least Two Hides: One on the warm side and one on the cool side.
Other Enrichment: Climbing branches, tunnels, artificial or real plants, and cork bark.
Feeding
Diet: Mice or rats (appropriate size for the snake’s girth).
Feeding Frequency:
Hatchlings: Every 5-7 days
Juveniles: Every 7-10 days
Adults: Every 10-14 days
Live vs. Frozen: Always use pre-killed frozen/thawed rodents to avoid injuries.
Water
Provide a large water bowl: Must be fresh and changed daily.
Can be used for soaking: Especially helpful during shedding.
Handling
Let them settle for a week before handling a new snake.
Handle gently, supporting their body.
Avoid handling for 24-48 hours after feeding.
Common Health Issues
Shedding Problems: Usually due to low humidity. Provide a moist hide or mist the enclosure.
Respiratory Infections: Wheezing or mucus means the enclosure is too cold or humid.
Mites: Tiny black dots on the snake or in water, requiring treatment.
Legal Requirements in the UK
You do not need a licence for a pied royal python.
You must follow animal welfare laws (Animal Welfare Act 2006).
Always source from a reputable breeder or rescue.