How long do large constrictors typically live?

AjaMichelle · 10-03-12, 04:30 PM

Hi folks,

About how long do large constrictors like rock pythons, retics, anacondas, and burms live? I have a burm that's at least 17 years old, but I think is a little closer to twenty, and a friend mentioned today that the average life expectancy of burms is about 20 years, though they can of course live longer.

I was under the impression that 30 years is about average. Does anyone know of any reliable sources or anecdotal evidence?

I've tried looking for sources and everything I've read is that 20 years is about average.

Thanks!

**millertime89** · 10-03-12, 11:12 PM

I usually see 20-30 quoted, some morphs less. I think Kim told me albinos usually less.

BarelyBreathing · 10-03-12, 11:48 PM

I've always thought twenty, but I can't remember where I heard that, so take it with a grain of salt.

DavethePython · 10-04-12, 12:04 AM

I have heard Burms ( so I am assuming other large constrictors) can live up to 30 years in captivity with proper care . 20 to 30 seems to be the normal range I have seen in my research .

rmfsnakes32 · 10-04-12, 01:13 AM

The readings I found said with proper husbandry they can live 30 years

StudentoReptile · 10-04-12, 07:15 AM

I have heard/read that BCI and ball pythons are neck-n-neck for the record for about 49 yrs.

Skumbo · 10-04-12, 07:19 AM

I believe 20-30 is the generally accepted time frame, but thats in line with how humans we have a general time frame.. some of us live to 30 before succoming to something (being perfectly healthy before) while others live 100+ So it's hard to say.

AjaMichelle · 10-26-12, 09:01 PM

Thank you all very much!

**Aaron_S** · 10-26-12, 09:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by millertime89

I usually see 20-30 quoted, some morphs less. I think Kim told me albinos usually less.

Only because people kill them...

Most people don't own them for their entire life so it's hard to get an actual accurate time frame. Bought and sold or given away or what have you...or released....

I just say 20 - 30 though since that's what's "known".

SSSSnakes · 10-26-12, 09:07 PM

I have seen and heard of them living 20 to 40 years. It really depends on how well they were cared for. Most large snakes are well over fed and FAT, causing a shorter life.

AjaMichelle · 10-26-12, 09:12 PM

My burm has had a pretty hard life... :/