THE PET FILE
What is it?
Lily is an Atherton Tablelands jungle python - she's 12 years old and just under two metres long.
Where do I get one?
I joined certain Yahoo chat groups and learned a great deal through that - you don't go to a pet shop and get a snake, and I think we all rather like it that way.
What does it cost to keep one?
In summer a snake eats once a week and in winter you've got a snake eating once a month. She eats one large rat per cycle - each rat costs about $10 or $11. I had my enclosure custom-built in the corner of the lounge room - it cost about $400.
What maintenance is required?
You need to give them a certain amount of attention so they stay tame.
Who does it suit?
Snakes are great pets, particularly if you travel and are away a lot. They're pretty clean as well, which makes them really good for kids.
Any cons?
You need to know their cycle so you're not giving her a nice hug and she suddenly poos all over you - there's not a whole lot of warning.
Where do they sit on the
affection scale?
You can't expect them to be
affectionate - I always say snakes are wild animals. But they pick up on your moods.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Article…
The article profiles Lily, an Atherton Tablelands jungle python. She's 12 years old and just under two metres long.
According to the owner, the best way to learn and find a python is through online groups and communities — the owner joined Yahoo chat groups to learn — rather than buying one from a pet shop.
Feeding costs in the article are about one large rat per feeding cycle at roughly $10–$11 each. The owner also had a custom-built enclosure installed in a lounge corner that cost about $400.
Feeding frequency varies by season: in summer the snake eats about once a week, while in winter she eats about once a month. The article notes Lily eats one large rat per feeding cycle.
The owner says pythons need regular attention so they stay tame — consistent handling and interaction are part of their maintenance to keep them used to people.
Yes — the article notes snakes are great pets for people who travel or are away a lot because they are relatively low-maintenance and pretty clean, which can suit busy lifestyles.
A practical downside mentioned is that you need to know the snake's cycle — you might be surprised by an unexpected bowel movement when handling them, as there isn’t much warning.
You shouldn't expect a python to be affectionate in the traditional sense; the owner describes snakes as wild animals. However, they do pick up on your moods and can become accustomed to regular handling.
Call 1300 880 160
Start a chat
Schedule a call
