Reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus)
Snakes · Difficulty: Expert
Key facts and care guidance for Reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) (origin: South and South-East Asia). Adult size around males 3–4 m, females 4–6 m, record over 7 m (one of the longest snakes in the world). Life expectancy 15–25 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.
Short answers
Reticulated python: What temperature does it need?
Daytime 28–32 °C, basking spot 33–34 °C, at night 24–26 °C.
Reticulated python: Does it need UVB lighting?
UVB: UVB not essential.
Reticulated python: How long do they live?
Life expectancy: 15–25 years.
Reticulated python: Is it suitable for beginners?
No – better suited to experienced keepers (difficulty: Expert).
Reticulated python: Can several be kept together?
Keep them singly – solitary, with a risk of cannibalism and stress; on grounds of strength and safety never keep two animals together except briefly for supervised breeding.
Climate
- Daytime temperature
- 28–32 °C
- Night temperature
- 24–26 °C
- Basking spot
- 33–34 °C
- Humidity
- 60–80 %
- UVB
- UVB not essential
Enclosure
- Minimum size
- ab 525×350×200 cm (Mindestmaß nach dem Gutachten von 1997, Netzpython, über 2, 5 m); großes Wasserbecken
- Substrate
- Absorbent bark mulch or coco humus
Feeding
- Food
- Large rodents, rabbits, poultry; adults take large prey
- Feeding interval
- adults 1× every 14–21 days, juveniles 1× every 7 days
Key facts
- Adult size
- males 3–4 m, females 4–6 m, record over 7 m (one of the longest snakes in the world)
- Life expectancy
- 15–25 years
- Origin
- South and South-East Asia
- Protection status
- CITES Appendix II / EU Regulation Annex B – registration required, proof of origin. In several German states it additionally requires a permit as a dangerous animal (a giant snake).
- Brumation
- None
- Cohabitation
- Keep them singly – solitary, with a risk of cannibalism and stress; on grounds of strength and safety never keep two animals together except briefly for supervised breeding
Notes
A very powerful, potentially dangerous giant snake – a secure lock, and above a certain size handling only with two people. A misting or watering system rather than mere hand-spraying. Only for experienced keepers with enough space.
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Related species
- Timor python (Malayopython timoriensis) – Intermediate
- Amethystine python (Simalia amethistina) – Intermediate to expert
- Angolan python (Python anchietae) – Intermediate
- Australian scrub python (Simalia kinghorni) – Intermediate
- Black-headed python (Aspidites melanocephalus) – Intermediate
- Boelen's python (Simalia boeleni) – Expert
- Burmese python (Python bivittatus) – Expert
- Indian python (Python molurus) – Expert
What you need to start
To keep Reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (ab 525×350×200 cm (Mindestmaß nach dem Gutachten von 1997, Netzpython, über 2, 5 m); großes Wasserbecken), substrate (Absorbent bark mulch or coco humus), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.
The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.
Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reticulated_python, https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Malayopython&species=reticulatus
All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).