Calabar Ground Python: The Secretive Burrower of the Snake World

The Calabar ground python (Calabaria reinhardtii), also known as the African burrowing python, is a fascinating and unusual species native to the rainforests and savannahs of West and Central Africa. Despite its name, it is only distantly related to true pythons, occupying a unique position in the snake world thanks to its secretive habits and remarkable adaptations for life underground.

Though not a commonly kept pet, this small, gentle species can be an excellent choice for dedicated keepers who appreciate a low-maintenance and calm-natured snake. This guide covers everything you need to know about keeping the Calabar ground python in captivity.

Origins and Natural Habitat

The Calabar ground python is found across parts of Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo. It inhabits humid tropical forests, farmlands, and areas near swamps, where it spends most of its time burrowed beneath leaf litter or within loose soil.

This environment is warm and humid, with stable temperatures year-round. The snake’s burrowing lifestyle and preference for shaded, damp habitats influence every aspect of its care in captivity.

Appearance and Temperament

Physical Traits

• Size: Adults usually reach 60–90 cm in length, making them one of the smallest python species
• Build: Stocky and cylindrical, with a short, blunt head and a thick, rounded tail that can resemble the head
• Colouration: Typically dark brown to black with lighter mottling, providing excellent camouflage in leaf litter
• Scales: Smooth and shiny, giving the snake an almost polished appearance

Behaviour and Temperament

The Calabar ground python is a secretive and slow-moving species. It rarely bites, instead relying on its tendency to curl into a tight ball when threatened. This defensive behaviour, combined with its calm nature, makes it a gentle snake that can be safely handled once accustomed to its keeper.

However, it is not particularly interactive. Most of its activity occurs beneath the substrate or at night, so it is best suited to those who enjoy observing subtle, natural behaviours rather than a display animal.

Housing Requirements

Replicating the natural conditions of this species’ underground environment is the key to keeping it healthy.

Enclosure Size

• Juveniles: A 60 cm x 45 cm x 30 cm vivarium or tub is sufficient
• Adults: A 90 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm enclosure provides ample space for burrowing and movement

Plastic or wooden enclosures are ideal, as they help retain humidity. Glass terrariums can also work if partially covered to prevent moisture loss.

Heating and Temperature Gradient

• Warm end: 30°C
• Cool end: 25–26°C
• Night-time: Allow a gentle drop to around 23°C

Use a heat mat or ceramic heater controlled by a thermostat to maintain stable temperatures. Because this species spends much of its time burrowed, under-tank heating is particularly effective.

Humidity and Ventilation

Maintain humidity between 60–80%. This can be achieved by misting the enclosure regularly and using a moisture-retentive substrate. Good ventilation is essential to prevent mould growth while keeping the air damp rather than wet.

Lighting

Calabar ground pythons do not require bright lighting, as they are largely nocturnal and prefer dim conditions. However, providing a natural light cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours darkness helps maintain a healthy rhythm. Low-level UVB (2–5%) can be beneficial but is not essential.

Substrate and Furnishings

• Substrate: Use a deep layer (10–15 cm) of coconut fibre, cypress mulch, or a mix of soil and sphagnum moss to allow natural burrowing
• Hides: Provide several hides at different temperatures
• Decor: Add leaf litter, cork bark, and branches to mimic a natural forest floor

This species thrives when it can dig and remain hidden for much of the time.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Calabar ground pythons primarily feed on small rodents, shrews, and occasionally birds.

Feeding Schedule

• Juveniles: Every 7–10 days
• Adults: Every 2–3 weeks

Food Items

Offer appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents, such as pinkie or fuzzy mice for juveniles and adult mice for mature snakes. Because this species has a slow metabolism, it is better to feed smaller meals more frequently than large ones at long intervals.

Avoid live feeding whenever possible, as the snake is slow to strike and can be injured by prey.

Feeding Tips

Feed at night when the snake is naturally more active, and place the food partly under the substrate to encourage hunting behaviour. Remove uneaten prey after 12 hours to prevent spoilage.

Handling and Behaviour

Calabar ground pythons are generally docile and tolerate gentle handling. However, they can be nervous if disturbed too frequently, especially during the day.

Handle them calmly and support their full body, allowing them to move slowly through your hands. Because they are burrowers, excessive handling can cause stress, so it’s best kept occasional.

They are more likely to curl up tightly or hide their head than to strike, making them a good species for those who prefer a calm, predictable snake.

Common Health Concerns

Shedding Issues

Inadequate humidity can lead to incomplete sheds. Provide a humid hide and ensure consistent moisture in the substrate.

Respiratory Infections

Caused by overly cool or damp conditions. Symptoms include wheezing, open-mouth breathing, or excess mucus around the nostrils.

Mites and Parasites

External mites are rare but possible. Maintain cleanliness and quarantine new animals to prevent infestation.

Obesity

Due to their slow metabolism, overfeeding can quickly lead to excess weight. Monitor body condition carefully and adjust feeding frequency as needed.

Regular enclosure maintenance and correct environmental control will prevent most health problems.

Lifespan and Breeding

Calabar ground pythons are long-lived for their size, often reaching 20–25 years in captivity.

Breeding is rarely attempted in the hobby due to the species’ secretive nature, but it is possible. Females lay 4–6 eggs, which they coil around protectively until hatching after about two months at 30°C. Successful breeding requires simulating seasonal variations with slight drops in temperature and humidity.

Conclusion

The Calabar ground python is one of the most intriguing and peaceful snakes in the reptile world. Its burrowing habits, small size, and gentle temperament make it a fascinating addition for patient keepers who appreciate observing natural behaviour.

Though not a display species, it rewards attentive care with its unique personality and quiet charm. With the right humidity, temperature, and environment, a Calabar ground python can thrive in captivity for many years, offering a rare glimpse into the secret life of Africa’s underground snakes.