Reptile · Python
Burmese python care guide
Python bivittatus
The burmese python is a expert-level python from S and SE Asia. Adults reach 300–550 cm and live 20–25 years in captivity. A giant that needs a room-sized enclosure; check municipal bylaws before buying. Solitary.
- Enclosure 300 × 150 × 120 cm
- Temp Warm 31–33°C, cool 26°C
- Humidity 60–70%
How much does a burmese python cost in Canada?
Burmese python quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 300–550 cm
- Lifespan
- 20–25 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- S and SE Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 300 × 150 × 120 cm (118 × 59 × 47 in, ≈ 1427 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 31–33°C, cool 26°C
- Humidity
- 60–70%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Burmese python enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 300 × 150 × 120 cm (118 × 59 × 47 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 31–33°C, cool 26°C. Humidity: 60–70%. UVB: Recommended.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a burmese python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 14–28 days for adults.
Handling, temperament & health
Often docile, but a giant constrictor that needs two people to handle.
Health watch: Watch for obesity, respiratory infections and feeding-response bites.
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 burmese python bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (300 × 150 × 120 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
Burmese python FAQ
Is the burmese python good for beginners?
No – the burmese python is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Often docile, but a giant constrictor that needs two people to handle.
What size enclosure does a burmese python need?
At least 300 × 150 × 120 cm (about 118 × 59 × 47 inches, roughly 1427 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a burmese python cost in Canada?
Typically $200–600 CAD to buy, about $7000–12120 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $800–1500 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a burmese python need?
Temperature: Warm 31–33°C, cool 26°C. Humidity: 60–70%.
What does a burmese python eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 14–28 days for adults.
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.