Snakes are fascinating and can make wonderful pets, with regular handling they can become quite tame. Snakes do have unique requirements, special needs and conditions that must be met. If you are new to owning a pet snake, find out what species suits you best, get your Pet Reptile Keepers Licence for the category of your choice, this is required by WA law, and learn what your pet snake requires. Keep in mind you are making a long term commitment, many can be expected to live longer than 20 years.

Things You Might Need

  • Terrarium
  • Heating and heat sources
  • UVB lighting
  • Substrate
  • Thermo-gradient
  • Cave
  • Water Dish
  • Ornaments (branches, rocks)

Category 3

If you are looking for relatively small reptile, the Stimsons python is ideal for first time reptile owners. They are relatively small as they reach up to 1 metre. Stimsons are generally docile snakes are easy to look after and require a fairly small enclosure. As with any type of reptile, young snakes are easily stressed, it is best to let your new reptile settle in for a week or so before you try to handle it.
Black Headed Python

Category 4

Black Headed pythons grow to an average of 1.5 to 2 metres but can grow up to 3.5 metres. Their body is muscular with a flattened profile while the tail tapers to a thin point, the top of the head is shiny black and the body pattern colour consists of shades of black, dark grey, brown, gold, and cream arranged in a striped or brindled pattern. If disturbed they will hiss loudly but are unlikely to bite (unless hunting). The Black Headed python will sometimes strike with a closed mouth, like a head butt but generally can be handled easily.

Category 4

Black Headed pythons grow to an average of 1.5 to 2 metres but can grow up to 3.5 metres. Their body is muscular with a flattened profile while the tail tapers to a thin point, the top of the head is shiny black and the body pattern colour consists of shades of black, dark grey, brown, gold, and cream arranged in a striped or brindled pattern. If disturbed they will hiss loudly but are unlikely to bite (unless hunting). The Black Headed python will sometimes strike with a closed mouth, like a head butt but generally can be handled easily.

Generally, at Pet City we do not carry reptiles from Category 5 and never carry venomous reptiles. If you are looking for a Category 5 reptile please search the Internet for more information about reptile dealers who stock category 5 reptiles.

Download our printable pythons.pdf fact sheets for advice on:

  • Feeding
  • Housing
  • Captive Care
  • Diseases

This page is a just a basic guide. To find out more about your pet, please ask Pet City about suitable books.

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