Considering a Carpet Python, Possibly Jungle

[lizzy_troy]

So, I'm researching carpet pythons. I feel like I've read so many articles, which are mostly repetitive with little information beyond the very basics. Can anyone recommend a website with lots of husbandry and temperament information, or a book even? Is there someone that I could correspond with over email as questions about these snakes pop up?

I have a large tank that I can set aside for a Carpet to grow into (I understand starting them in a small tank, or even a shoe box sized bin, until they grow into such a large enclosure), and I will start collecting hides, water bowls, climbing and perching things, etc.. I have read that they can be picky eaters, preferring mice and not all that willing to switch to rats if started on mice.

I also read that Jungles are small-medium for Carpets, averaging 5-8 feet. Is this normally the case? About how big do they "ball up" when in their hides? Just wondering what to expect and what kind of tank "furniture" to keep an eye out for.

There is a reptile expo coming up in August near me, two actually, so I will continue to do research, and if I feel confident and have an enclosure ready to go, I'll be looking for a Carpet to bring home.

[DennisM]

​http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Compr.../dp/098327892X


I haven't read the book, but the authors are highly reputable and successful carpet breeders.


An 8 foot jungle would be a rarity, though certainly possible. I have 3.3 adult jungles and none exceed 6 feet.


A small percent of carpets will simply never accept rats. I'd look for hatchlings that have been started on rat pinks/fuzzy. I've kept a couple dozen assorted carpets over the years and have encountered a handful that never converted. I feed them quail, chicken, guinea pig and rabbit (if they reach that size).

An adult jungle can utilize a small litter pan as a hide. They require no special furnishings, though perches/shelves will definitely be used. However, I don't use them.


Be sure to buy from a reputable dealer. The carpet python world is full of intergrades, most of which have been mixed with coastals in quest of jaguars. Some of these intergrades can be hard to detect. A jungle with coastal blood can be larger than expected.

[artgecko]

I have the book mentioned above and it is great. Loads of info and pics of the different localities, morphs, etc. Worth the $$ IMO.
I got my first carpet a few months ago and am enjoying him. I agree with the info above... Be choosy. I went to 3 shows looking for a carpet and only found one I liked at the last show I went to. Look for babies with clean color.. Most will brighten as they age, but if the "yellow" looks like mud as a baby, probably not a good investment.

The carpet I went with is a mix.. a jungle jag (High % IJ).. I wanted a classic high yellow jungle, but couldn't find any.

As for how well they ball up... Mine can get into tiny places. If you're familiar with the RBI plastic hides, my ~2.5' carpet was able to squeeze into a "small" and preferrred it to the medium for a long time.

They are a lot more active than BPs and also they take taming down. Mine is still not completely nip-free and this is after handling him quite a bit.

[DennisM]

...Look for babies with clean color.. Most will brighten as they age...

This is important to note, jungle hatchlings will have no yellow. They look like dull tiny coastals. The color change starts early and is in full swing at about 1 year. Pics of the parents are very useful in determine the likely outcome of yellow in their offspring.

[John1982]

The book DennisM recommended is your best bet for more in depth information. You can also browse Nick Mutton's, co-author of the book, website at http://inlandreptile.com/index.html if you haven't already. The female half of my pair is one of Nick's animals and he produces some fantastic stuff! As a bonus, Nick keeps lineage info on his website so you can track the bloodlines. Both my 2011 Mutton female and 1996 VPI male are in the 5-6ft range. When coiled they are roughly 10 inches in diameter, for the younger girl, and 14 inches for the old boy.

[anicatgirl]

I find this thread helpful. I loved the baby I held a few weeks ago. Tagged me twice but I barely noticed I was so in love

[lizzy_troy]

I find this thread helpful. I loved the baby I held a few weeks ago. Tagged me twice but I barely noticed I was so in love

I haven't seen one in person yet, but I have done lots of research and I already adore them! I can't wait until the expo inn August!!