Introduction
The Biak Green Tree Python is a vibrant and majestic species of python found on the Indonesian island of Biak. This species is rather small compared to other pythons and can grow up to a maximum of six feet in length. In the wild, the Biak Green Tree Python can be found in a variety of habitats ranging from rainforest to mangrove swamps. These non-venomous snakes are a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts due to their beautiful coloration and docile nature.
Appearance
The Biak Green Tree Python is an attractive snake with a bright green colouration, patched with yellow and white. The head of the snake is a brighter yellow or orange colour, with a black line running down the back of the head. The scales on the snake are smooth and glossy, giving the snake a sleek and elegant appearance. The Biak Green Tree Python has a prehensile tail, which they use to wrap around branches and cling on to them while they sleep or hunt.
Behaviour
The Biak Green Tree Python is a solitary species, only coming together in the mating season. They are primarily active during the night and spend most of their days resting in the trees. During the night, the Biak Green Tree Python will hunt for small mammals, birds, and lizards to eat. This species of python is non-venomous, so they will usually kill their prey by constriction.
Habitat
The Biak Green Tree Python is native to the Indonesian island of Biak. They can be found in the rainforests and mangrove swamps of the island, where they spend most of their time in the trees. The Biak Green Tree Python prefers areas with high humidity and plenty of cover. They are also commonly found in disturbed areas such as plantations and secondary forests.
Reproduction
The Biak Green Tree Python is a oviparous species, which means that they lay eggs rather than give birth to live young. The female will lay a clutch of up to eight eggs in a nest of leaves and rotting wood. The eggs will then be incubated for around 60 days before hatching. After hatching, the young snakes will be independent and must fend for themselves.
Captive Care
The Biak Green Tree Python is a popular species of snake kept in captivity due to its attractive colouration and docile nature. When kept in captivity, they should be provided with an enclosure that is at least 2 metres long and 1 metre wide. The enclosure should have plenty of foliage and branches for the snake to rest on and climb around. The temperature in the enclosure should be maintained between 23-27°C and the humidity should be kept at around 60-70%. The enclosure should be cleaned regularly and the water should be changed every few days.
Diet
In the wild, the Biak Green Tree Python will feed mainly on small mammals, birds, and lizards. In captivity, they should be fed a variety of appropriately sized prey items such as mice, rats, quail, and chicks. The prey should be dusted with a calcium and multivitamin supplement to ensure the snake gets the necessary nutrients it needs. The Biak Green Tree Python should be fed every 5-7 days, depending on its size and activity level.
Health
The Biak Green Tree Python is a hardy species of snake, but like all animals, it can be susceptible to certain health problems. Some of the most common health problems seen in this species are respiratory infections, mouth rot, and parasites. These issues can usually be prevented with good hygiene and a balanced diet. If any health problems are noticed, the snake should be taken to a reptile vet for a check-up.
Conclusion
The Biak Green Tree Python is a magnificent and beautiful species of python that is popular with reptile enthusiasts. This species has a unique colouration and a docile nature which makes it an ideal pet snake. With the right care and diet, the Biak Green Tree Python can make a wonderful addition to any reptile collection.
