Is the tendency to get RI’s exaggerated?

[dakski]

I can't speak specifically on blood pythons as I've never kept them.

However, I've had to deal with RI's 2X. It sucks. Both snakes were cured and came with them. It's very expensive and not fun for anyone - shots and nebulizers.

One of the 2 snakes was Yafe, my Carpet Python. He was young, about a year old, and only 100G. He's now over 1,500G and doing amazing.

If proper husbandry is given for the species and the animal the enclosure is kept clean, I do not think RI's are too common in general. They are usually caused because an animal is weakened otherwise, is wild caught and was weakened by shipping etc. and other possible infections, parasites, etc, or just poor husbandry, usually over a long period of time.

Very important that temps be consistent and proper for the species and with humidity, remember that too little is about as bad as too much. Yafe need about 60-65% humidity normally and I raise that when he sheds. However, I see many people who overcompensate and keep humidity in the 70% range for even BP's, who need 50-60% normally. That's not good for either their respiratory system and high humidity plus deep substrate or unclean substrate = mold, bacteria, etc. and this can lead to RI's and worse.

Again, do your research and stick within the parameters and keep the tank clean. All that should equal a happy and healthy snake.

Also, many blood pythons in the past were imported and/or not bred in captivity for long. A lot of the stories of bitey/nippy Bloods and illness probably has to do with not being captive bred. I am guessing, but this was an issue for many species newer to the hobby. Even BP's, back when I was young, were often wild caught and came with a plethora of issues and potentially defensive behavior.

Good luck and post progress when you get your blood python. Cool species.