Care Guide Reference

Irian Jungle Carpet Python
Morelia spilota variegata
Western half of New Guinea

Irian Jaya Carpet pythons (Morelia spilota variegata) come from Iran Jaya which is the western half of New Guinea. They are a true locality specific Carpet Python which according to literature has only been maintained in captivity since 1994. They are the smallest locality of carpet python not reaching more than 4-6ft. They are probably the best suited captive for many keepers due to the generally excellent temperament, ease of care and good manageable size.

Enclosure size will obviously depend on the size of the animal, hatchlings are best maintained in small hatchling tubs or faunariums at first increasing the size of the enclosure as the animal grows. Eventually when the snake reaches adult size of around 5 feet (within 3-4 years) it will need an enclosure around 3ftx2ftx2ft. Carpet Pythons love to climb so if you can provide a taller enclosure then by all means do so.

When deciding on the type of enclosure then its worth considering several things, the main one usually being durability, along with cost and safety in mind. In this day and age there are many enclosures available made from wood, glass, and plastic and fibre glass. All types of enclosure have their pros and cons, but ewe would always advise going for the best quality housing you can afford and not simply buying something you will need to replace in a year or so.

Fish tanks/ aquariums are NOT suitable for reptiles despite what others may say so please don’t be tempted to use them.

Substrate for reptiles is probably one of the most debateable topics ever. There are many different types to choose from but the only ones really ideal for carpet pythons are aspen, orchid bark or newspaper. If you wish for a nice looking enclosure then you will probably choose aspen or orchid bark, but if you want something cheap, safe, hygienic and easy to clean out then newspaper is a good option.

Tank decorations are another thing of which there is a huge variety to choose from. Remember that the more décor you use the more you will have to clean and disinfect on a regular basis. However there are two things which must be inside the vivarium, these are a sufficient hide/hides and a water bowl. Snakes are generally insecure animals which need confined space in order to feel secure (and thrive) so hides must always be provided. A water bowl large enough for the snake to completely submerge itself and with fresh water should be available at all times. Branches should also be provided for carpet pythons as they are a semi- arboreal species and love to climb. They must be fixed in place and strong enough to take the snakes weight (usually around the same thickness as the snake at mid body).

Like housing, heating can also be achieved in a number of ways from ceramics, incandescent spot lights, heat mats and heat plates. Again like the housing they all have their pros and cons. The type of heating you may use may depend on the type of housing you have decided to use as some may be better suited than others. However Regardless of the type of heating all heat sources should be adequately guarded and run on the appropriate thermostat (this is not an optional extra!)

Within the enclosure a background temp with a gradient of 75-78f is adequate but should never be allowed to fall below 75f. At the warm end a basking spot of around 85-88f should be provided in order to allow the snake to thermo regulate (regulate its own chosen body temp by moving to a warmer or cooler place). Humidity is also closely related to temperature so it’s worth mentioning it at this point. Generally Iran Jaya’s don’t have any major humidity requirements and are usually kept at a moderate humidity with a gentle misting around shed times if needed.

In captivity Iran Jaya’s usually feed readily on defrost rodents of appropriate size. Hatchlings can usually be started off on fluffs rather than pinkies and increase the size off the food items as required. Generally they should be fed prey items slightly thicker then the thickest part of their body (enough to leave a slightly visible lump after eating). Hatchlings should be fed every 5-7 days, juveniles and sub adults should be fed every 7-10 days and adults every 10-14 days.

Morelia is probably one of the most interesting groups of pythons that can be kept in captivity with the Carpet Pythons being the most popular. Certainly due to their small size and attractive appearance the Iran Jaya's are certainly one of the better carpet pythons to keep.

Written by Adam Ockwell