Reptile · Python
Black-headed python care guide
Aspidites melanocephalus
The black-headed python is a advanced-level python from Northern Australia. Adults reach 150–250 cm and live 20–30 years in captivity. Eats other snakes in the wild; never cohabit. Uses its black head to bask. Solitary.
- Enclosure 150 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Warm 32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 30–50%
How much does a black-headed python cost in Canada?
Black-headed python quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 150–250 cm
- Lifespan
- 20–30 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Northern Australia
- Minimum enclosure
- 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 143 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 32°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 30–50%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats
- Bioactive style
- Semi-arid
Black-headed python enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-arid bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Semi-Arid Blend15 cm
No drainage layer – water deeply but rarely so the bottom stays slightly moist while the surface stays dry.
Temperature: Warm 32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 30–50%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a black-headed python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rat every 10–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Curious and calm but has a strong feeding response.
Health watch: Watch for obesity and burns.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking surface temperature with an infrared thermometer.
- Keep the humid hide damp; refresh water.
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
- Every 1–2 weeks, pour water down into the soil around plants and in the cool corner.
Monthly
- Check stones and wood are stable and can’t be tunnelled under.
- Add a few leaves to the cool corner for isopods.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer in the basking area.
- Replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a black-headed python bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (150 × 60 × 60 cm).
Jurassic ABG Semi-Arid Blend
Bioactive soil layer, 15 cm
Canyon Sand
Optional: mix in for a firmer, sandier texture
Eastern Oak Leaves 10/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Terrarium Moss 7L Bag
Humid hide moss
Cork Bark Half Rounds
A hide at each end – plus one humid hide filled with damp moss
Mopani Wood
Climbing and a raised basking spot
Carnelian Stone
Holds heat under the lamp – place directly on the enclosure floor
Black-headed python FAQ
Is the black-headed python good for beginners?
The black-headed python is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Curious and calm but has a strong feeding response.
What size enclosure does a black-headed python need?
At least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (about 59 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 143 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a black-headed python cost in Canada?
Typically $3000–6000 CAD to buy, about $1100–1940 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–450 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a black-headed python need?
Temperature: Warm 32°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 30–50%.
What does a black-headed python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rat every 10–14 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.