Blood Python (T+ Albino)

Python brongersmai
Common Names: Blood Python, Brongersmai Python
(T+ = Tyrosinase-Positive Albino, recessive morph)

Species Overview

• Size: Adults typically reach 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m), with females often bulkier and heavier-bodied. Rare specimens may exceed 7 feet.

• Appearance:

  • T+ Albino (recessive – visual): This morph removes much of the black pigment but retains some brown and caramel tones, unlike T- Albino which eliminates melanin entirely.

  • The result is a snake with rich caramel, golden, and chocolate hues, contrasted by softer whites and lighter eyes.

  • Over time, T+ Albinos often intensify in colour, becoming more vibrant with age.

• Distribution: Wild-type Blood Pythons are native to Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and surrounding islands.

• Habitat: Naturally found in swamps, marshes, and humid lowland forests, where dense vegetation and high moisture provide cover.

• Behaviour: A terrestrial ambush predator, feeding mainly on rodents and birds.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: Adults do best in enclosures at least 4 ft × 2 ft × 1.5–2 ft, prioritizing floor space. Provide a secure hide, deep humidity-retentive substrate, and a large water bowl for soaking.

• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain a basking area of 86–88°F (30–31°C) and a cooler side of 78–80°F (25–27°C). Keep humidity at 60–70%, with spikes to 80% during shedding.

• Diet: Juveniles should be fed hopper rats or equivalent prey every 5–7 days. Adults thrive on medium to large rats every 10–14 days. Careful feeding is important, as this species is prone to obesity.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Captive-bred T+ Albinos are generally hardy and adaptable, though they may be food-driven and defensive when startled. With consistent handling and proper care, they typically become steady captives.

• Special Considerations: They thrive in naturalistic, humid enclosures with deep substrate, which allows for burrowing and helps maintain hydration.

Genetics Note

• T+ Albino (Recessive – Visual): The T+ mutation (Tyrosinase-Positive) reduces melanin but does not eliminate it entirely, resulting in caramel and golden tones instead of stark white.

• Difference from T- Albino: T- Albino (Tyrosinase-Negative) removes all melanin, producing high-contrast whites, yellows, and oranges. T+ Albino, by contrast, produces a warmer, more natural palette.

• Breeding Potential: T+ Albinos are a cornerstone in Blood Python morph projects, combining beautifully with Batik, Matrix (Ivory), Golden Eye, and other traits to create some of the most striking designer morphs.

The Blood Python (T+ Albino) is one of the most iconic and sought-after morphs, known for its rich golden-caramel tones and its foundational role in producing high-end designer Blood Python combos.