Body temperature of a burmese python

afsgr88 · 04-07-17, 10:56 AM

Hey guys!

I have been poking around on the Internet about this subject, but everyone says something different... What is the expected body temperature of a burmese python?

The reason why I am asking this is because my burm decided to basically camp on the cold side of the enclosure for almost a week now. Last time I took his temperature with temp gun, it was at 71°F and I am just afraid that's too cold, but i am not sure. Husbandry is as follows:

- Hot side is between 84°F and 87°F (measured with temp gun)
- Cold side is at 75°F (also measured with temp gun)
- Air temperature is at 82/83°F (measured with digital thermometer with a probe)
- Humidity is kept between 60% and 75%

Maybe an important detail: his last successful feed was 2 weeks ago. I am giving him some tough love to see if I can finally get him on rats. Can this have something to do with his behavior? He used to spend all his time in the hot side. He has 2 hides, but uses none, btw.

Here is a pic of the enclosure (I know, I gotta get the cables fixed, please don't judge

):

Should I worry?

Thanks

**Andy_G** · 04-07-17, 10:57 AM

I know nothing about husbandry for burms but if husbandry is fine, you shouldn't worry. Body temp will depend on environment as they are ectotherms.

GyGbeetle · 04-07-17, 01:00 PM

My burm sits on the cold side for a week at a time. Every so often she'll go over to the warm side, but mostly she sits on the cold side, in defiance of the heat we've provided for her. I don't think it's abnormal for them to want the cold side. they are snakes; trying to predict patterns in their behaviour is often times a lesson in futility.

jay's reptiles · 04-07-17, 10:09 PM

Most snakes will only usually use their hostide for digesting a meal. This is very normal.

chairman · 04-09-17, 11:59 AM

Many reptiles thermoregulate so that their internal temperature is around 85F. But that's internal, and not the temp you'd get with a temp gun. Go ahead and take a reading on yourself, you'll probably get a reading in the high 80s or low 90s.

But aside from that, I agree with the others. Your snake will find heat when it wants it.

afsgr88 · 04-09-17, 09:05 PM

Alright guys, thanks for the answers

I'll try not to worry.