How long do Burmese Pythons live?
Burmese pythons live 20-25 years and reach 10-16 feet (300-500 cm), with exceptional females near 18-20 feet; adults weigh 50-100+ kg. They grow past 6 feet within 2-3 years.
What do Burmese Pythons eat?
They eat frozen-thawed rabbits and large rats: rat pups for juveniles progressing to full rabbits for adults. Feed juveniles weekly and adults every 2-4 weeks, one large prey item. Never feed live prey (risk to both). No insects, eggs or plants. Adults are immensely strong constrictors.
Burmese Python enclosure setup
Adults require a custom enclosure of at least 8x4x4 feet (240x120x120 cm), often a dedicated room, with a basking area of 88-92°F (31-33°C), ambient 80-85°F (27-29°C), and a cool end near 78°F (26°C); nights drop to 75°F (24°C). Humidity 50-60% with a large water tub they can soak in. UVB is optional. Security is paramount: a lockable, escape-proof setup is mandatory for a 15-foot snake.
Common mistakes with Burmese Pythons
Critical errors: underestimating adult size and strength (escapes and safety risk), improper humidity (shed and respiratory disease), live feeding of large prey, and acquiring one where local law bans or restricts them (legal and ethical problem).
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Underestimating size — a 15-foot, 100 kg snake needs a room, not a tank.
- Wrong humidity — sheds and respiratory infections.
- Live feeding large prey — dangerous for the snake.
- Ignoring local laws — Burmese pythons are banned/restricted in many states (e.g., Florida).