Housing neonate Boelen’s Python should be as followed. The substrate in the cage of a neonate, or juvenile may be composed of newspaper or paper towels. As the animal starts to reach larger proportions the issue of using another substrate can be addressed. Newspaper or paper towels can provide a fairly sterile environment, allowing for easier cleaning, while minimizing any or all stress involved when cleaning cages. Preparation and design of the cage will include at least one general hiding spot and a basking area for juveniles only. I enjoy incorporating a live plant into each neonate and juvenile enclosure.This allows for another source of escape from being viewed and the feeling of security as well as helping with humidity and oxygen exchange. Each day a shallow bowl is cleaned and refilled with fresh water for drinking and soaking.
Babies have a tendency to dehydrate quite easy, so it is essential that excessive evaporation of water be prevented. As long as sufficient amounts of water are available for soaking or drinking, one misting session per day provides an adequate level of humidity for neonates or juveniles. Decisions regarding precision of temperature regulation will vary depending upon the age and stage of the snakes. It is essential to create a temperature gradient throughout the enclosure. The general area for exploration will require a different temperature zone than that of the basking site. Establish a daytime zone A that remains approximately 27- 29°C (mid eighties °F.) Care must be taken to not allow enclosure to be any higher then 32°C . Observations are crucial to make sure snake does not over heat! Neonates are quite fragile. Allow the evening temperature to drop to between 25 and 29°C (High seventies and low eighties °F). Make sure not to allow enclosure to fall any lower then these temps. Important I recommend using heat tape or heating cables of some sort to maintain a consistent temperature of 80 degree at night allowing the animal to always have access if desired. Select the proper heating and timing sources.
