Carpet Python (Morelia spilota) Care Sheet

The Vivarium Vault: Comprehensive Care Sheets
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Carpet Python (Morelia spilota) Care Sheet

​Overview

  • ​Size: Highly variable by subspecies; typically 5–9 feet (1.5–2.7 meters).

  • ​Lifespan: 15–20+ years.

  • ​Temperament: Generally manageable, but can be defensive or nippy as juveniles. Known for a strong feeding response.

  • ​Habitat: Semi-arboreal, found in diverse habitats from forests to grasslands and urban areas across Australia and New Guinea.

​Enclosure & Environment

  • ​Minimum Size: Since they are semi-arboreal, vertical space is key. A minimum enclosure of 4ft x 2ft x 4ft (LxWxH) is recommended for a 6-foot adult. The height is essential for climbing and thermal gradient.

  • ​Furniture: Provide multiple sturdy branches, ledges, and climbing structures at varying heights to allow for climbing and basking. Include two hides: one on the warm side and one on the cool side (at ground level or raised).

  • ​Substrate: Moisture-retaining substrates work best, such as cypress mulch, coconut coir, or orchid bark.

  • ​Temperature Gradient:

    • ​Basking Spot (Highest Point): 90°–95°F (32°–35°C)

    • ​Ambient Air Temperature: 75°–85°F (24°–29°C)

    • ​Cool Spot (Lowest Point): 70°–75°F (21°–24°C)

  • ​Humidity: Moderate, around 50%–60%. A large water bowl and misting 1-2 times daily (or using a fogger/mister) can help maintain this, especially during shed cycles. Ensure good ventilation to prevent stagnant air and respiratory issues.

  • ​Lighting: While UVB is not strictly mandatory, low-level UVB lighting (e.g., 5-7% strength) is beneficial for overall health and promoting natural behaviors, especially with their diurnal basking habits.

​Diet & Feeding

  • ​Prey Type: Strict carnivores. Offer frozen-thawed rodents.

  • ​Prey Size: Should be slightly wider than the widest part of the snake’s body.

  • ​Feeding Schedule:

    • ​Juveniles (up to 3 ft): Every 7–10 days.

    • ​Adults: Every 10–14 days. Feed smaller prey items more frequently rather than large items infrequently.

  • ​Important Note: Carpet Pythons have a very strong feeding response and should always be fed using tongs to avoid accidental bites (mistaking fingers for food).

​Water & Hygiene

  • ​Provide a large, heavy water bowl that can maintain humidity and allow for soaking.

  • ​Spot clean waste immediately. A full substrate replacement is recommended every 6–8 weeks.