Short Tail Python (Python breitensteini)

Common Name: Short-tailed Python
Scientific Name: Python breitensteini
Source: WC

Adult Size: Typically 120-180 cm total length

Native Range: Borneo

Enclosure: Large terrestrial terrarium; minimum around 150 × 60 × 60 cm with secure hides and sturdy substrate for burrowing

Heating: Basking spot 30-32 °C; ambient 22-24 °C; night drop around 20 °C

Humidity: 65-80 % with good ventilation and a slightly moist substrate

UVB: Low-level UVB

Diet: Carnivorous; rodents and appropriately sized prey offered regularly depending on age and size

Water: Large water dish for drinking and occasional soaking

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Python breitensteini, commonly known as the Bornean Short-tailed Python, is a medium-sized, heavy-bodied python native to the island of Borneo. It is one of the three recognised short-tailed python species and is closely related to the Blood Python.

This species inhabits tropical forests, swamps, and lowland areas where it spends most of its time on the ground, often concealed in leaf litter or vegetation. Like other pythons, it is a non-venomous constrictor that preys primarily on small mammals and birds.

In captivity, Bornean Short-tailed Pythons do best in secure terrestrial enclosures with appropriate humidity, warm temperatures, and multiple hides. Maintaining stable environmental conditions and providing a diet of appropriately sized prey supports healthy growth, natural behaviour, and overall wellbeing.