Green Tree Pythons are striking arboreal snakes native to New Guinea, Indonesia, and northern Australia. They spend most of their lives perched on branches and require vertically oriented enclosures with stable humidity and temperature.

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Basic Information

• Scientific name: Morelia viridis

• Common name: Green Tree Python (GTP)

• Adult size: 120–180 cm (4–6 ft)

• Lifespan: 15–20+ years in captivity

• Temperament: Defensive when handled; best kept as a display species

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Enclosure

Minimum enclosure size

• Juveniles: 45 × 45 × 45 cm

• Subadults: 60 × 45 × 60 cm

• Adults: 60 × 60 × 90 cm or larger

Vertical height is more important than floor space.

Setup requirements

• Multiple horizontal perches at different heights

• Good ventilation but able to hold humidity

• Secure enclosure (they are escape artists)

Substrate options

• Coconut husk

• Orchid bark

• Cypress mulch

• Paper towel (for quarantine)

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Temperature

Maintain a gradient, but avoid excessive heat.

Daytime

• Ambient: 26–28°C

• Basking/perch: 30–31°C

Night

• Drop to 23–25°C

Heating options:

• Radiant heat panel

• Ceramic heat emitter

• Heat mat controlled by thermostat

Avoid strong overhead lights that dry the enclosure.

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Humidity

Ideal humidity: 60–80%

Provide:

• Daily or every-second-day light misting

• Good airflow to prevent respiratory infections

Signs humidity is correct:

• Complete sheds

• No condensation buildup

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Lighting

Not strictly required but beneficial.

Recommended:

• 12 hr day/night cycle

• Optional low-level UVB (2–5%)

Avoid intense lighting because these snakes prefer dim environments.

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Feeding

Feed frozen-thawed rodents.

Juveniles

• 1 fuzzy or hopper mouse every 5–7 days

Subadults

• Small mouse every 7–10 days

Adults

• Small rat every 10–14 days

Tips:

• Feed at night

• Use feeding tongs

• Avoid excessive feeding (they gain weight easily)

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Handling

Green Tree Pythons are not handling snakes.

Handling guidelines:

• Only handle when necessary

• Use a snake hook to remove from perch

• Avoid handling after feeding

Frequent handling often causes stress and defensive strikes.

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Water

Provide a clean water bowl large enough for drinking.

Change water every 1–2 days.

They often drink droplets after misting.

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Shedding

Healthy shedding requires correct humidity.

Signs of upcoming shed:

• Dull colour

• Blue eyes

• Reduced appetite

Increase misting slightly during shed cycles.

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Common Health Issues

Watch for:

• Respiratory infections (wheezing, bubbles)

• Mouth rot

• Dehydration

• Poor sheds

• Obesity from overfeeding

Stable temperatures and humidity prevent most problems.

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Pro Tips for Success

• Keep perch diameter similar to snake body thickness

• Avoid constantly rearranging enclosure

• Maintain consistent temperatures

• Feed moderate prey sizes

Green Tree Pythons thrive with stability and minimal disturbance.