Reptile · Python
Borneo short-tailed python care guide
Python breitensteini
The borneo short-tailed python is a intermediate-level python from Borneo. Adults reach 120–180 cm and live 20–25 years in captivity. Heavy-bodied; keep humid but never soggy. Solitary.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Warm 30–32°C, cool 26°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a borneo short-tailed python cost in Canada?
Borneo short-tailed python quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 120–180 cm
- Lifespan
- 20–25 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Borneo
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 30–32°C, cool 26°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Borneo short-tailed python enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, cool 26°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a borneo short-tailed python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rat every 14–21 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Usually calm once settled; can be defensive.
Health watch: Watch for obesity, respiratory infections and scale rot.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a borneo short-tailed python bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 15 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Borneo short-tailed python FAQ
Is the borneo short-tailed python good for beginners?
The borneo short-tailed python is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Usually calm once settled; can be defensive.
What size enclosure does a borneo short-tailed python need?
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (about 47 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 114 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a borneo short-tailed python cost in Canada?
Typically $300–700 CAD to buy, about $1020–1770 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–450 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a borneo short-tailed python need?
Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, cool 26°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a borneo short-tailed python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rat every 14–21 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.