Royals have been kept in captivity for a long time, but a recent explosion in colour morphs available has boosted their popularity. They are a small python species, not exceeding 4-5 feet long in general, but are much heavier bodied than colubrids like corn snakes. Most take well to handling and often curl up enjoying the heat from your body.

• They are a very handsome species and many morphs are available.

• They are very long lived - reported over 40 years in some cases!

• They prefer smaller cages - some refuse to eat when moved to a larger setup!

• Their small size makes them a safe python species to keep.

• Their thick-set body makes them look more 'impressive' than a thinner-bodied snake species such as corn snakes (to most people!).

• They are relatively slow-moving.

• Morphs are expensive - think carefully before making your decision!

• They can often be very fickle feeders, but with perseverance they usually come round.

• They easily become ill if temperatures are not correct or some other stress is present.

• They need relatively high temperatures, a 32-35C(90-95F) hotspot is ideal.

• They are nocturnal, so they will sleep during the day.

• They prefer security over correct temperature, so if their hide is on a hotspot and they are too hot, they will just sit and cook. Hides at both hot and cool ends must be provided.

If you are a beginner, you can start with any age or sex, but make sure they are established feeders before you buy. We recommend staying away from wild caught or captive farmed babies unless you have the experience needed to deal with them. Either sex makes a good pet, but be aware that females are the larger of this species. All of our available royal pythons are captive bred and feed on defrosted mice (hatchlings) or rats (grown-on juveniles and adults). Hatchlings will have had at least 6 good feeds before we consider letting them go (or possibly sooner at our discretion depending how well they feed).