Eating Live Mice! 

Manokwari Green Tree Python

Morelia viridis – Manokwari Locality

Description:
The Manokwari Green Tree Python is a striking arboreal python locality from the Manokwari region of West Papua. Neon yellow or red hatchlings typically transition to vivid emerald green with scattered blue highlights and clean white scaling along the dorsum. This locality is prized for its sharp contrast, defined pattern, and classic “perch and pose” behavior.

Disposition:
Generally defensive and best considered a display animal. Tolerates routine maintenance well when properly supported with perches and minimal handling.

Size:
Adult size averages 4–5 ft, slender-bodied, with a prehensile tail adapted for arboreal life.

Enclosure:

• Style: Vertical arboreal enclosure
• Size (adult): Minimum 24” x 24” x 24”; larger preferred
• Perches: Multiple diameters, secure, placed at varying heights
• Substrate: Coco chips, cypress, or other moisture-retentive substrate

Environment:

• Ambient temperature: 78–82°F
• Basking/perch hotspot: 84–86°F
• Night drop: 74–76°F (optional but beneficial)
• Humidity: 60–80% with good ventilation
• Lighting: 12-hour light cycle; low-level UVB optional but beneficial when properly provided

Diet:
Appropriate-sized frozen/thawed rodents offered every 7–10 days for juveniles and 10–14 days for adults. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and perching stress.

Water:
Clean, fresh water available at all times in a stable, spill-resistant bowl.

Experience level:
Best suited for intermediate to advanced keepers familiar with arboreal pythons, humidity management, and minimal-handling species.

Notes:

• This animal should be maintained primarily as a display species, with handling kept to a minimum.
• Proper perch placement, stable humidity, and avoiding temperature spikes are key to long-term