Python Articles by Doc Rock

We have been writing these articles for Reptiles Australia magazine since April 2004. They belong to Southern Cross Reptiles and Reptiles Australia magazine and it is an offence to reproduce any part of the contents of these articles, including all graphics, images and text without prior written consent.

Number
Title
Synopsis
SNAKE EMPATHY and the Art of Handling Pythons
Describes the senses of a python and how it perceives the world. Explains how to "read" your python and describes handling techniques.
HOME SWEET HOME - A python's perspective
Talks about a pythons needs to be happy and healthy and cage setup and design. Covers hide boxes, water, lighting, heating and substrates.
'TILL DEATH US DO PART - Keeping a Happy and Healthy Python
Discusses the suitability of Australian pythons as a pet. Looks at the main factors affecting python health and how to inspect your python. Describes how to deal with problem sheds.
BREEDING PYTHONS - PART 1: The Basics
Describes the breeding anatomy of male and female snakes. It then outlines the anatomical and physiological processes snakes go through during their breeding cycle.

BREEDING PYTHONS -
PART 2: The breeding Season Approaches

Looks at temperature cycling methods for breeding snakes and explains with graphs how we gradually cycle our Australian pythons. Feeding regimes and male/female ratios are also discussed.
BREEDING PYTHONS -
PART 3: Down to business
Talks about the effects of location on the timing of mating. Discusses using multiple males across females, female cycling behaviour, mating boxes, record keeping and feeding gravid snakes.
BREEDING PYTHONS -
PART 4: Stress City
Discusses how to tell when your python ovulates and becomes gravid. It takes the reader through pre-lay shedding, egg deposition, removal of eggs and the basics of incubation.
KEEPING & BREEDING INLAND CARPET PYTHONS
Describes the distribution and preferred habitat of inland carpet pythons in Australia. Explains their temperament, husbandry and how to breed them in captivity.


******To view an article just click on the chosen number ******


Return to Home Page