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Description
Black Blood Python (Normal het. Caramel Albino)
Python curtus
Common Names: Sumatran Short-tailed Python, Black Blood Python
Species Overview
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Size: Typically reach 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m) as adults, though some females may exceed 7 feet. Heavy-bodied with a powerful, stocky frame.
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Appearance:
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Like the wild-type form, these pythons are usually dark brown to jet black, often with faint golden banding.
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Due to the heterozygous presentation of the incomplete dominant Caramel Albino gene, this animal has a slightly warmer tone than a truly wild-type counterparts.
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Distribution: Native to Sumatra, Indonesia.
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Habitat: Naturally found in swamps, marshes, and humid lowland forests, where high humidity and dense ground cover dominate.
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Behaviour: Ambush predators feeding on mammals and birds, typically waiting concealed for prey.
Captive Care
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Enclosure: Provide an enclosure of 4 ft × 2 ft × 2 ft for most adults, with larger enclosures preferred for big females. Include secure hides, a large water basin, and deep substrate to support natural burrowing.
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Temperature & Humidity:
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Basking zone: 86–88°F (30–31°C).
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Cooler side: 78–80°F (25–27°C).
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Humidity: 65–75%, with temporary boosts to 80% during shedding. Good airflow is essential to prevent health issues.
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Diet: Juveniles start on appropriately sized rodents every 5–7 days. Adults do well on medium to large rats every 10–14 days, with feedings carefully managed to avoid obesity.
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Behaviour in Captivity: Captive-bred Pumpkin Head Short-tails are typically hardy and reliable feeders. Young snakes may be defensive but most mature into calm, steady captives when handled properly.
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Special Considerations: Thrive in naturalistic, humidity-retentive setups with enrichment to reduce stress.
Genetics Note
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This individual carries the heterozygous (het.) Caramel Albino gene, meaning it has one copy of the incomplete dominant Caramel Albino trait. When paired with another Caramel Albino or Het. Caramel Albino, it can produce Caramel Albino offspring.
The Sumatran Short-tailed Python (Normal het. Caramel Albino) is both a striking animal in its own right and a valuable addition to breeding projects, combining the slightly altered wild type look with the potential to produce true Caramel Albino offspring.