Sumatran Short-tailed Python (Pumpkin Head Het T+)

Python curtus
Common Names: Sumatran Short-tailed Python, Black Blood Python

Species Overview

• Size: Typically reach 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m) as adults, though some females may exceed 7 feet. Heavy-bodied with a powerful, stocky frame.

• Appearance:

  • Like the wild-type form, these pythons are usually dark brown to jet black, often with faint golden banding.

  • The Pumpkin Head trait is a selectively bred line noted for its brighter orange or rust-coloured head scales, which contrast with the darker body.

  • The trait is most visible in juveniles and subadults, though many retain the warm head tones into adulthood.

• Distribution: Native to Sumatra, Indonesia.

• Habitat: Naturally found in swamps, marshes, and humid lowland forests, where high humidity and dense ground cover dominate.

• Behaviour: Ambush predators feeding on mammals and birds, typically waiting concealed for prey.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: Provide an enclosure of 4 ft × 2 ft × 2 ft for most adults, with larger enclosures preferred for big females. Include secure hides, a large water basin, and deep substrate to support natural burrowing.

• Temperature & Humidity:

  • Basking zone: 86–88°F (30–31°C).

  • Cooler side: 78–80°F (25–27°C).

  • Humidity: 65–75%, with temporary boosts to 80% during shedding. Good airflow is essential to prevent health issues.

• Diet: Juveniles start on appropriately sized rodents every 5–7 days. Adults do well on medium to large rats every 10–14 days, with feedings carefully managed to avoid obesity.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Captive-bred Pumpkin Head Short-tails are typically hardy and reliable feeders. Young snakes may be defensive but most mature into calm, steady captives when handled properly.

• Special Considerations: Thrive in naturalistic, humidity-retentive setups with enrichment to reduce stress.

Genetics Note

• The Pumpkin Head is a line-bred trait, not a simple dominant or recessive mutation. It emphasizes brighter orange/red head colouration within Python curtus.

• This individual also carries the heterozygous (Het) T+ Albino gene, meaning it has one copy of the recessive T+ Albino trait. When paired with another T+ Albino or Het T+, it can produce T+ Albino offspring.

• The Pumpkin Head trait can combine with T+ Albino, enhancing the brightness and contrast of albino individuals.

The Sumatran Short-tailed Python (Pumpkin Head Het T+) is both a striking animal in its own right and a valuable addition to breeding projects, combining the line-bred Pumpkin Head look with the potential to produce T+ Albinos.