The Ultimate Guide to Reticulated Python Care and Husbandry in the UK

Introduction:

Reticulated Pythons, often fondly referred to as 'Retics,' are a species of remarkable beauty, known for their impressive length and stunning patterns. As a UK-based Reticulated Python breeder and enthusiast, this post aims to provide an in-depth guide to caring for these majestic creatures. Here, you will find valuable insights on creating the perfect vivarium environment, understanding their dietary needs, maintaining optimal humidity and temperature, managing shedding, and more. Let Cold Blooded Coils take you through some hints and tips on owning a retic.

Understanding the Reticulated Python:

Native to Southeast Asia, Reticulated Pythons are the world's longest snakes. Adult Retics commonly reach lengths between 10-15 feet in captivity, though larger specimens have been recorded. These creatures are primarily nocturnal, which means they are most active during the night. While their size may seem intimidating, with proper care and husbandry, these creatures can become docile, fascinating, and fulfilling pets. They truly are one of the most fascinating and mesmerising species on the planet.

Creating the Perfect Vivarium:

When it comes to housing your Reticulated Python, space is crucial. The size of the vivarium should correspond to the snake's length; as a rule of thumb, the enclosure's length and width combined should at least equal the snake's length. A full-grown Retic in the UK often requires a vivarium measuring around 8x2x2 feet.

Inside the vivarium, substrate plays a vital role. Orchid bark, cypress mulch, and coconut husk substrates are excellent choices as they aid in maintaining the required humidity levels. Soaking the substrate can help generate humidity within the enclosure; a thorough soaking once every two weeks is typically sufficient, but monitoring the humidity levels to maintain around 60-80% is crucial.

For heating, both ceramic heat bulbs and infrared (IR) panels are viable options. The ambient temperature in the vivarium should range from 27-32°C (80-90°F), with a cooler end at the lower range and a basking spot at the higher end. Be careful to avoid overheating, as it can lead to serious health issues.

We use smart sensors in our retic suite and vivs which allow us to closely monitor and record the temperatures and humidity very closely. So if anything changes we can look through the data to find the source, if it is even a husbandry issue. This is especially useful when it comes to breeding. You can get it all to exactly how you want it and what works for your retics.

Lighting and UVB:

Retics don't require UVB lighting, but having a day-night cycle is essential for their wellbeing. A simple way to achieve this is by using a light timer. Providing 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness typically mimics their natural habitat conditions. We operate our suite with smart sensors and lighting, so it operates based a lot on natural sunlight so when we work with the retics it flows with the sun light outside.

Understanding Shedding:

Shedding is a natural process for Retics and a good indicator of their health. Providing an abrasive surface, such as a rock, can aid in the shedding process. However, it's not a necessity if humidity levels are well-maintained during this period.

The Importance of Hides:

In addition to heating and lighting, providing at least one hide in the vivarium is essential for your python's wellbeing. Hides offer a sense of security and can be particularly beneficial during shedding periods. If you don’t use a hide, your retic can become agitated or defensive when being handled, and they may also stop eating.

In conclusion, owning a Reticulated Python in the UK is a serious commitment that requires understanding and dedication. These extraordinary creatures need more than just space; they require an environment that mimics their natural habitat, appropriate feeding, and regular health checks. With the right care and attention, your Retic can thrive, bringing you years of fascination and joy.

But remember that every retic is different and each one needs an individual approach. These general hints and tips will help get you going but special car and attention needs to be given to your retic and their husbandry. If they aren’t responding, or eating or acting defensive then you may want to look at your numbers. Failing that seek expert advise or a vet to ensure your retic is in good health.

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