The Centralian Carpet Python (Morelia bredli), commonly called the Bredli, is a large and striking python from the rocky gorges, mulga scrub and red-sand country of central Australia. It is a separate species from the coastal and subtropical carpet pythons, and its colouring reflects that origin: rich reddish-brown and rust tones with bold cream or white patterning that makes it one of the most distinctive Australian pythons. Adults typically reach 2 to 2.5 metres.
We also stock the Hypo Centralian Carpet Python, a reduced-pigment form with lifted, brighter tones. Both require identical care.
In Queensland a wildlife keeper's licence is required. See our Queensland Reptile Licence Guide before purchasing.
Before You Set Up
Have the enclosure at correct temperatures before the snake arrives. A thermostatically controlled setup should be running and verified at least 24 hours before the snake comes home.
Enclosure
Bredlis are semi-arboreal and benefit from climbing opportunities as well as floor space. A single adult needs a minimum of around 150 x 60 x 75 cm, and larger is always better for a snake that can reach 2.5 metres. Adults should not be cramped. Provide a sturdy climbing branch or shelf, at least two hides (one warm, one cool), and a large, stable water bowl.
Hatchlings and juveniles are best started in a smaller, secure space to help them settle and feed reliably before moving to their adult enclosure. Browse our enclosures and reptile supplies.
Heating
The Bredli comes from hot, arid central Australia and appreciates a strong thermal gradient.
- Basking zone: 32 to 34°C
- Warm ambient: 27 to 30°C
- Cool end: 24 to 26°C
- Night: allow temperatures to drop to around 20 to 22°C. This species tolerates moderate night-time cooling well.
Use ceramic heat emitters or infrared globes on a thermostat. Verify temperatures with a thermometer at both ends of the enclosure. Browse our heating and thermostat range.
Humidity
The Bredli comes from a dry climate and does not need elevated humidity. An ambient humidity of 40 to 60% is appropriate. Constant high humidity causes skin and respiratory problems. Provide a water bowl large enough for the snake to soak in during the shed cycle.
Lighting and UVB
UVB is optional but beneficial. A 5.0 UVB tube on a 12-hour cycle is appropriate. Turn lighting off at night. A regular day/night cycle helps maintain natural behaviour and feeding rhythms.
Browse our UVB lighting range.
Feeding
Feed frozen-thawed rodents only. Choose prey approximately the same width as the snake's thickest point.
- Juveniles: every 7 days, starting on pinkie rats or mouse fuzzies and progressing as they grow.
- Adults: every 14 to 21 days. Bredlis can become overweight if fed too frequently. A healthy adult is lean and muscular.
Thaw prey fully before offering. Use long tongs with larger adults. Do not handle for at least 48 hours after feeding. Provide fresh water at all times. Browse our frozen feeders.
Handling and Temperament
Bredlis are generally docile and settle into calm, handleable snakes with regular interaction. Like most pythons, hatchlings can be more defensive, but most become reliable to handle within their first year. Use a snake hook to lift adults out of the enclosure, particularly around feeding time. Give a new snake at least a week to settle before handling, and avoid handling within 48 hours of a meal.
Breeding
Bredlis breed readily in captivity with a winter cooling period of reduced temperatures and shortened day length, followed by a gradual return to normal conditions in spring. After mating, females lay a clutch of eggs that can be maternally incubated or artificially incubated at around 30 to 32°C, hatching in roughly 55 to 65 days. Breeding should only be attempted by keepers with the appropriate licence conditions and resources to care for hatchlings.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 2 to 2.5 metres |
| Lifespan | 20+ years |
| Enclosure (adult) | 150 x 60 x 75 cm minimum |
| Basking zone | 32 to 34°C |
| Warm ambient | 27 to 30°C |
| Cool end | 24 to 26°C |
| Night | 20 to 22°C |
| Humidity | 40 to 60% |
| UVB | Optional but beneficial (5.0) |
| Feeding (juvenile) | Every 7 days, frozen-thawed |
| Feeding (adult) | Every 14 to 21 days, frozen-thawed |
Shop
- Enclosures and Reptile Supplies
- Heating and Thermostats
- UVB Lighting
- Substrate and Decor
- Frozen Feeders
If you have questions about setting up for a Bredli, our team is always happy to help.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Individual animals vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Always consult a qualified reptile vet for health concerns. A Queensland wildlife keeper's licence is required to purchase and keep Centralian Carpet Pythons.
