Angolan Python

Python anchietae
Common Names: Angolan Python

Species Overview

• Size: Adults typically reach 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m), with females being larger and bulkier than males. Rare individuals may exceed this range, but they are considered medium-sized among pythons.

• Appearance: Angolan pythons are recognized for their rich reddish-brown to dark brown base colour with cream, tan, or white irregular spots forming a mosaic-like pattern. Their most distinctive trait is their bead-like, keeled scales, giving them a rough, textured appearance unlike almost any other python.

• Distribution: Found in southwestern Africa, mainly in Angola and northern Namibia.

• Habitat: Inhabits arid savannahs, rocky outcrops, and dry scrublands, often taking refuge in rock crevices, burrows, or under cover to avoid extreme heat.

• Behaviour: A terrestrial ambush predator, feeding primarily on small mammals and birds. They are secretive, emerging during cooler hours to hunt.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: A 4’ × 2’ × 2’ enclosure is adequate for most adults. Provide multiple hides, climbing branches, and rocky décor to simulate their native environment. Substrates such as cypress mulch, aspen, or soil-based mixes work well.

• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain an ambient range of 78–82°F (25–28°C) with a basking area around 88–92°F (31–33°C). Nighttime drops to 72–75°F (22–24°C) are fine. Humidity should be moderate, 40–60%, with access to a slightly more humid hide for shedding.

• Diet: Juveniles feed on mice every 7–10 days, while adults are maintained on rats or similar prey every 14–21 days. Prey should be proportionate to the snake’s girth.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Typically docile, hardy, and easy to manage, Angolan pythons adapt well to captivity and tolerate handling with minimal stress.

• Special Considerations: Still relatively rare in captivity due to their restricted range and historic export limitations, making them a coveted species among advanced keepers.

Species Note

The Angolan Python (Python anchietae) is the closest living relative of the Ball Python (Python regius), sharing similarities in size, temperament, and care. What sets them apart are their highly textured, bead-like scales and more vibrant, contrasting patterns. Their rarity and unique appearance make them highly sought after in the reptile hobby.