There are 4 subspecies of Carpet Pythons available in the US from private breeders, plus numerous hybrids. Adult size can range from 5 to 12 feet (more in exceptional cases) and they are generally easy to care for, docile, and wonderful herps for pets. This information, however, does not pertain to the Diamond Carpet Python, as it's care is different.

For a snake of this size, their housing tends to run smaller than you might think suitable. Everything I have been told, read, and observed indicates Carpet Pythons feel more secure in a smaller enclosure. They are somewhat aboreal and will climb if sturdy branches are provided. My adult pair are kept in a 55-gallon aquarium. They are content there, and well cared for. Secure lids/doors are a must, as these are very active snakes and will escape if given the opportunity.

Mine eat well in the summer but refuse food in the spring until after breeding season. The winter cool down lasts several weeks for Carpet Pythons, from early November until late February, the temperature cycling to a low of 68-70 degrees F. if the snake remains free of signs of distress. (Snakes that are breathing abnormally are immediatly warmed up, and taken to the vet if symptoms persist.)

Carpet Pythons enjoy moderate humidity. If they are soaking in a water dish without an immenant shed, mite are the most likely cause.

My adult pair of Carpet Pythons are hosed together year round. Breeding will usually take place from February until May, with eggs appearing 3-4 months later. (Male Carpet Pythons mature earlier, at 3 years of age, females at 4-5 years.) At 91 degrees F., eggs will hatch 56 days later. I have heard of clutch sizes up to 56 eggs. 20 would be closer to average.

Hatchling Carpet Pythons are snappy (like most hatchling snakes are), lunging at anything that moves. They are also harmless, even if their teeth happen to break the skin. If handled regularly, they will quickly outgrow their snappiness. Most hatchling Carpet Pythons are also very good feeders, taking thawed pinkies after their first shed. An occasional one may need to be coaxed to feed with a live or brained pinkie.

There are numerous subspecies crosses available. If you are considering purchasing one of these for a breeding program, you should be very careful you are actually getting what you are paying for.

I recommend the first three Carpet Pythons as pets for reptile owners as a beginning or first snake. They grow slower than most other species, have basically easy reptiles care, are good feeders and gentle snakes. They aren't one of the 'giant' snakes, neither are they small, averaging 6-7 feet. Their color patterns are widely variable, all of them beautiful. This is a species I give an 'A+' rating.

Jungle Carpet Python (Morelia spilota cheynei)

Coastal Carpet Python (Morelie spilota mcdowelli)
aka Queensland Carpet Python

Irian Jaya Carpet Python (Morelia spilota variegata)
aka New Guinea Carpet Python

Diamond Carpet Python (Morelia spilota spilota)
Note: This subspecies has more specialized care, being more difficult, larger, and considerably more expensive.