The Spotted Python (Antaresia maculosa) is a compact, hardy and good-natured python native to Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales. It is a popular choice for first-time snake keepers, and for good reason: it stays manageable in size, settles into captivity well, and feeds reliably once established. Adults typically reach 0.8 to 1.2 metres and live 15 to 25 years with appropriate care.
We stock several forms including standard, Blonde and Platinum Spotted Pythons. All require identical care regardless of appearance.
In Queensland a wildlife keeper's licence is required. See our Queensland Reptile Licence Guide before purchasing.
Before You Set Up
Have the enclosure running at correct temperatures before the snake comes home. A python arriving into a cold or unfinished setup will refuse food and take longer to settle. Set up first, then buy your snake.
Enclosure
Spotted pythons do not need a large enclosure and feel more secure in a compact, well-fitted space. For a single adult, an enclosure around 90 x 45 x 45 cm is appropriate. Overly spacious enclosures can cause stress and make it harder for the snake to locate its heat source and hides.
For juveniles in their first 6 months or so, house them in a small plastic container (a click-clack or tub) placed inside your thermostatically heated cabinet. The tight space helps them feel secure and usually results in more consistent feeding. Transition to the larger enclosure as they grow.
Every enclosure needs at least two hides, one over the warm end and one over the cool end, and a completely secure lid. Use a solid substrate such as paper, newspaper, or reptile-safe bark. Browse our enclosures and reptile supplies.
Heating
Provide a thermal gradient from warm to cool across the enclosure so the snake can thermoregulate.
- Warm end: 30 to 33°C
- Cool end: 24 to 26°C
- Night: allow temperatures to drop a few degrees, down to around 20 to 22°C. Avoid sustained temperatures below 18°C.
For tubs and smaller enclosures, a thermostatically controlled heat mat under one end works well. For larger enclosures, a heat lamp or infrared globe on one end creates the gradient. Always use a thermostat and verify temperatures with a thermometer at each end, not by feel or by trusting the thermostat dial alone. Browse our heating and thermostat range.
Lighting and UVB
Spotted pythons are crepuscular to nocturnal and can be kept successfully without UVB. Low-level UVB is beneficial and we recommend it where possible: a 5.0 UVB tube on a 12-hour cycle provides a health benefit without being overpowering. Turn all lighting off at night. Even without dedicated UVB, a regular day/night light cycle keeps the snake settled.
Feeding
Feed frozen-thawed rodents only. Live prey is never recommended as it can injure the snake and adds unnecessary stress to both animals.
Choose prey approximately the same width as the thickest part of the snake's body.
- Juveniles: every 7 days, starting on pinkie mice and progressing as they grow.
- Adults: every 7 to 14 days depending on body condition.
Thaw prey thoroughly before offering. Do not handle the snake for at least 48 hours after a meal. A snake about to shed (milky eyes, dull skin) may go off food temporarily, which is completely normal. Provide fresh water in a sturdy bowl at all times. Browse our frozen feeders.
Handling and Temperament
Spotted pythons can be mildly nippy as hatchlings but generally become relaxed, confident handling snakes with regular calm interaction. Give a new snake a full week to settle in before attempting handling. Support the body fully, keep sessions short initially, and always avoid handling within 48 hours of a meal and during a shed cycle.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 0.8 to 1.2 metres |
| Lifespan | 15 to 25 years |
| Enclosure (adult) | 90 x 45 x 45 cm or similar |
| Warm end | 30 to 33°C |
| Cool end | 24 to 26°C |
| Night minimum | 20 to 22°C |
| UVB | Optional but beneficial (5.0, low intensity) |
| Feeding (juvenile) | Every 7 days, frozen-thawed |
| Feeding (adult) | Every 7 to 14 days, frozen-thawed |
| Prey size | Same width as the snake's thickest point |
Shop
- Enclosures and Reptile Supplies
- Heating and Thermostats
- UVB Lighting
- Substrate and Decor
- Frozen Feeders
If you have questions about setup or choosing feeders, 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 Spotted Pythons.
