5 Things You MUST Consider Before Buying A Snake

Research

Before you purchase your snake, you need to make sure you have enough knowledge to be able to care for this animal, ensuring that they are healthy and have a good life in their new home! In order to educate yourself properly, you can gather information from online resources, books, reputable reptile forums, veterinary clinics, reptile breeders, knowledgeable pet stores, and more.

You can begin by researching different snake species to determine which one fits best with your preferences and lifestyle. Personally, any python in the Antaresia genus (Spotted Pythons, Children’s Pythons, Stimson’s Pythons, and Pygmy Pythons) are the best beginner snakes. Antaresia species are all approximately under 1.5 meters in length, with Spotted Pythons being the largest and Pygmy Pythons being the smallest. Their small size makes them easy to house, feed, and handle, especially for younger children. Pythons in this genus can live up to around 20 years old and can be very docile as long as they are held relatively regularly.

Once you have decided which species of snake you would like to be a part of your family, your next step will be to research their care requirements. You will need to find out specific enclosure requirements, temperature needs, humidity, lighting, feeding, and cleaning requirements for that particular species.

Every reptile keeper starts somewhere and mistakes are part of the journey. What matters most is being willing to learn, grow, and make improve along the way to better your animals quality of life.

Personalised, in-depth advice can make all the difference.

If you're looking to improve your husbandry or troubleshoot specific issues, book in for a husbandry consults below to help you become a more confident, capable, and ethical keeper.

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For the very basics, you will need:

  • Enclosure - multiple materials can be used but it is neccesary to ensure there is proper ventilation.

  • Substrate - there are multiple different substrates available that can be used such as Chipsi Snake or paper towel.

  • Heat source - such as a heat mat or heat lamp, which needs to be paired with a thermostat to properly regulate temperature.

  • UV lighting - though many snake species can live without it, it is recommended to use UV as it is beneficial for immune system health, bone health, and more.

  • Water bowl - so your snake has access to fresh, clean water 24/7.

  • Enrichment - this can be in the form of decor such as logs, branches, rocks, foilage, etc.

  • Hides - you will need a minimum of two, one on the cool side, and one on the warm side of the enclosure. This allows your snake to properly thermoregulate its own body temperature while still being able to shelter.

  • Reptile tools - snake hooks and feeding tongs are a staple for every reptile keeper to make life easier when handling and feeding your snakes.

  • Frozen rodents/prey items - these can be bought from a local pet store or online (I reccomend The Rat Ranch for everyone in SouthEast Queensland).

Everything listed above are the very basic necessities that should be implemented for every python species.

The Essentials

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Legal Considerations & Licensing

In Australia, you need to hold a reptile license to keep any species of snake. There are different types of licenses for different reptiles, quantities of reptiles, and the state you live in. Below are the links to relevant authority websites in your state to find out which license you will need.

Queensland

QLD Goverment Website - Wildlife Licencing

New South Wales

NSW Government Website - Wildlife Licencing

Victoria

VIC Government Website - Wildlife Licensing

Australian Capital Territory

ACT Goverment Website - Wildlife Licensing

South Australia

SA Goverment Website - Wildlife Licensing

Northern Territory

NT Government Website - Wildlife Licensing

Western Austrila

WA Government Website - Wildlife Licencing

Tasmainia

TAS Government Website - Wildlife Licensing

Please be aware that if you wish to purchase from us, we are in Queensland and all animals shipped interstate will require an export permit at the buyer's expense. Note that if you are outside of Australia or in Tasmania or Western Australia, we will not be able to freight reptiles to you due to Australian laws.

Buying Your Snake

It is important to select a reputable source to purchase your snake from. Avoid purchasing from pet stores or breeders that show signs of neglect or lack transparency about their snakes. When purchasing a snake, you will need to show proof of your reptile license to the seller, the seller should also provide their license to ensure you are purchasing from a legal and ethical source.

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  • Handling

    I would recommend you wait at the very least one week after purchasing your snake to handle them, a new environment can be stressful and take some time to adapt to, especially for hatchlings. When handling your snake, ensure to be gentle and support their entire body weight. Let the snake slither over your hands and explore without grabbing or restricting them. Snakes can be held regularly, just be aware that overhandling, especially in hatchlings, can stress your snake out and cause issues such as food refusal. I would recommend handling no more than once a day, waiting at least 24 hours to handle them after feeding, and avoiding handling while they're shedding, as handling during these times can cause stress and disrupt their natural processes.

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    Health & Cleaning

    Make sure to spot clean your snake's enclosure daily and do a deep clean every couple months. This is crucial for parasite prevention and maintaining clean living conditions to prevent any health issues. It is important to look for any signs of illness such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in skin condition. If you see any of these signs, please book an appointment with your local reptile veterinarian.

Getting your own python is a rewarding experience that offers the chance to observe and appreciate these beautiful creatures up close. By educating yourself, sourcing responsibly, and taking proper care of your snake, you can ensure its health and well-being for many years to come. Enjoy your new family member!

 

Written by Ava De Jesus