Olive Python

[SnowFoxx]

Maybe these guys wouldn't exactly be considered giant, but I don't know where else this post should go. I'm looking for any info I can get on this guys (heat/humidity requirments, cage size, personality, etc...) and some pics for size reference (and drooling) if possible. This is going to be my next snake, so I want as much info and as many opinions as I can get. Thanks!

- Victoria

[Zoe]

http://www.vpi.com/5vpibreeders/OlivePython/OlivePython.htm

http://centralpets.com/pages/critterpages/reptiles/snakes/SNK2863.shtml

http://www.pythons.net/papuanewguinea/papuan/

http://www.smuggled.com/auspyt3.htm (scroll down)

Hope those help!
Zoe

[ballpython5000]

olive pythons are so cute

[ccirone]

I have several retics, burms, balls, boas, etc., including an Olive Python. And I have to tell you, if you're considering an Olive - EXCELLENT CHOICE! As I said, I have quite a few snakes and my Olive is by far, my favorite. They are absolutely beautiful creatures with a great personality to boot.

And actually, they are pretty large snakes; cases around 4 meters have been documented - however 15 feet is more realistic. They have extremely strong feeding responses, even comparable to my retics. I've never had a problem w/fussiness during feeding time. When hatchlings however, they can be fairly aggressive; but w/regular handling they grow to be absolutely tame and quite fun to handle. I have two boys under 5 which I let handle my Olive.

Temp./Humidity levels should be as follows: 92-95degree hotspot, 75degree coolspot w/an ambient temp. around 82-85 degrees. Humidity levels between 50-60%; however I boost mine up around 65-70% at the onset of a shed. I've never had one incomplete shed since owning mine.

As far as cage size, there are many guidelines people use; however one of the more standard guides is as follows: length=1/2 snake length, width=1/4 snake length and height varies on type snake (arboreal vs. terrestrial). However, as Olives are more slender snakes, you can really get away w/a smaller cage; really as long as they have some room to move around it works. It is important, however not to cramp them as they are very active snakes.

As I said earlier, their personalities are phenomenal after 2-3 months of regular handling. However, don't be alarmed if your hatchling seems to be possessed by Lucifer the first few weeks, LOL! Just handle them with confidence regularly and they really do mellow out.

Very important to note is feeding guides. I would HIGHLY recomment F/T. Olives have an extremely high scale count, which means their skin is extremely delicate, feels like silk. And even a mouse can scratch their skin fairly easily. Besides, you will have no problem getting them to eat F/T, believe me. Unless you already do, use tongs as they have an INSANE feeding response and will easily take your hand along with prey.

If I knew how to post pics, I would post some of mine. If you'd like I can email you some. Good luck and congrats on your choice! If you like a large, sleek, beautifully simple, chalky-irridecsant snake with an wonderfully engaging, curious yet docile personality.....you're gonna' love your Olive!