TC.24.06

75/25 Carpondros should be cared for, similar to how Gree Tree Pythons are cared for. Carpet pythons possess a larger and more diverse natural habitat than do GTPs, with varying conditions inhabiting the Southern regions of Papua New Guinea and much of the Northern and Eastern, Southeastern regions of Australia. GTPs occupy Papua New Guinea and surrounding islands, which are only a mere part of the upper Northern Tip of Australia. It is potentially that 75/25 Carpondros may be able to handle a wider range of temperatures and humidity levels than that of pure GTPs. I am currently treating them identically as far as care goes to neonate GTPs. Higher temps and even lower humidity could be considered for future husbandry and habitat requirements. Use discretion on how the snake is shedding, ensuring it’s always in one piece. If Sheds are spotty and not in one piece, that can be an indicator of dehydration and too hot of temps.

All hybrid neonates are established in shoebox-sized tubs in a snake rack with a hot side ranging from 80-87°F. The key to their care is constant monitoring. I monitor the direct temps with a digital thermostat and observe where the snake spends most of their time. If the snake is only perching on the cool side, I generally adjust the heat a couple of degrees until the snake seeks the heat out some days. This level of attention is crucial for their well-being.

Paper towels are kept as substrate, with a small 3" ceramic water bowl and two horizontal perches. The perches are made from plastic PVC tubing and positioned on the upper section of each cage. Ensure the perches are around the same circumference as the snake's body.

I spray neonates daily to ensure freshwater droplets are available on the walls and the snake's body to stay hydrated. I often see them drinking straight from a slow drip that I offer them.

Carpondros are being offered food weekly consisting of pinky or fuzzy mice roughly the same girth as the thickest part of the snake’s body. It is important not to strain the bowels of GTPs and potentially Carpondros. Avoid considerably large meals to prevent any risk of prolapse. 75/25 Carpondros may be able to handle larger meals compared to adult GTPs when they are older, but they should be offered smaller meals as they are young.

When handling young and fragile snakes, especially neonate Green Tree Pythons (GTPs), it’s important to exercise great caution. Their spines are delicate, and their muscles are stronger than their ribs, so forced movement, thrashing, or restraint can lead to injury. Due to these concerns, I handle 75/25 Carpondro neonates sparingly. When I do, it’s usually because they have voluntarily left their perch, which often happens when disturbed.

From my experience, these hybrids are notably more curious and less skittish than typical pure GTPs, making them easier to handle. While Carpet Pythons are more active than GTPs, Carpondros seem to have a balanced behavior. They may sometimes slither around when handled, exploring their surroundings. Other times, they anchor themselves onto a finger or article of clothing and curiously observe their environment.

Ontogenetic coloration change refers to the natural color transformation that occurs as a reptile matures from a juvenile to an adult. In new hybrid Green Tree Python lineages, particularly the 75% Carpondro hybrids, this change is especially intriguing. Since hybridization of these pythons has only gained popularity in the past decade, there are very few adult specimens, making it difficult to predict how their coloration will evolve over time.

This uncertainty adds an element of excitement and mystery to owning these unique animals. As they grow and develop, their colors may shift in unexpected ways, offering a captivating experience for reptile enthusiasts. Investing in these hybrids is not just about owning a beautiful snake but also about being part of an evolving project where each animal's appearance continues to surprise and delight as it matures.