Reptile – Stimson’s Python
Scientific Name: Antaresia stimsoni
Pronunciation: ann-tahr-EE-zee-ah STIM-son-ee
Required License: Category 3
General Information
They generally inhabit rocky outcrops and escarpments in woodland areas, feeding primarily on rodents. They will also consume bats, frogs and small lizards.
As one of the smallest pythons in the world, rarely growing larger than 1m long, they are mostly terrestrial often hiding under and between rocks during the day, and coming out at night to find prey.
Suitability
Stimson’s pythons (or “stimmies” as they are more affectionately known), make the perfect snake for a beginner entering into the exciting world of reptile keeping. They are typically a very placid and calm species, well suited to handling and interaction. Their reasonably small size and great temperament, has made them a very popular choice.
Requirements
Will be dependent on the size/age of the snake. You can comfortably keep a pair of adult stimmies in an enclosure of roughly 600mmL x 400mmW x 300mmH. You can obviously go bigger that this, but any smaller is not recommended. Hatchlings can be kept in a smaller enclosure however will be fine in an adult enclosure as long as there is suitable hiding places for their size.
Substrates:
There are many different substrates available, but I find the Reptile Landscape is a brilliant all-round substrate, especially being designed for Australian reptiles. You can also use various aspen beddings, sand, and other bark products.
Heating:
Being ectothermic, snakes require heat to gain energy, therefore a quality heating source is essential. These come in the forms of globes, heat cords or heat mats. The most commonly used source is a globe. The size of the enclosure will determine the wattage required. Ideally, you need a basking spot temperature of around 30-33 degrees Celsius, not exceeding 36 degrees.
Lighting:
UV lighting is not a necessity for snakes as it doesn’t necessarily provide any health benefits. However, it definitely doesn’t hurt, and in some cases can aid in bringing out a snakes colours. It also acts as a display light in the enclosure.
Feeding:
The most readily available, and most ideal food for Stimson’s pythons, are mice. Most good pet shops now sell these. Size is again dependant on the age of your animal, but check with the seller as to what they are currently feeding on beforehand. All mice need to be defrosted before feeding, and under NO circumstances, are to be fed to the snake as live food. This is against your license regulations. Some snakes will take the food straight off tongs, some will take it at their own leisure if you leave it on the floor, and some require a bit of enticing by wiggling the mouse in front of it before striking.
Décor:
Stimmies tend to hide away when not out hunting, so a suitable hiding area for them to retreat and feel safe is very important. Your choice of hide, is obviously dependant on the size of your snake. We have many different options available on the store. A good water dish is also a definite must have.
This covers your necessary requirements. The rest are all optional, and really depend on your personality and your budget. We have a huge variety of décor items available, ranging from rocks, to plants, to basking platforms. Check out what we have, and design your new pets home to your own personal taste!