The olive python (Liasis olivaceus) is one of Australia's largest snakes, averaging around 2.5m with some individuals exceeding 4m. They are drab olive to rich brown above with a creamy belly. Like many pythons they can be snappy as juveniles, but from around a year of age they become one of the best handling snakes available.
Housing
Adults need a very large enclosure - at least 8 x 3 x 3ft, and bigger is better. Provide a thermal gradient with a warm end around 35C and a cool end around 26C using ceramic or infrared globes on a quality thermostat. Suitable substrates include paper, quality bark or aspen snake bedding. Olive pythons are partially arboreal, so include sturdy branches to climb, plus a hide and a very large water bowl - in the wild they are excellent swimmers.
Diet & Feeding
In the wild olive pythons eat birds, mammals and other reptiles, often ambushing prey near water. In captivity, defrosted rats, rabbits and quail are ideal. Avoid live food at any stage, as it can seriously injure your python. Feed juveniles weekly and adults every second week.
Overview
A large but rewarding species for keepers with the space, olive pythons become wonderfully calm with regular handling. In Queensland a wildlife licence is required to keep one.
Speak to the team at Nicks Aquarium Oceanarium Terrarium about housing a large python.
Recommended products
Find everything for your snake at Nicks Aquarium Oceanarium Terrarium: enclosures & supplies, heating & thermostats, substrate & decor and frozen feeders. A reptile licence is required in Queensland - see our QLD reptile licence guide.
