In the Wild
Opportunistic ambush predators
Carpet pythons are widespread across Australia, New Guinea, and parts of Indonesia, occupying a remarkable range of habitats — from coastal rainforest to arid scrubland. This adaptability is reflected in their diet, which shifts based on what's available in their environment.
As ambush predators, wild carpets coil patiently along tree branches, in rock crevices, or near rodent runs and bird nests, striking when prey passes within range. Juveniles often start with smaller prey like skinks and frogs, gradually shifting toward warm-blooded prey as they grow.
Wild Diet
Common prey items
A native bush rat — typical prey of an adult carpet python
In Captivity
Captive feeding
In captivity, carpet pythons thrive on a straightforward diet of appropriately-sized frozen-thawed rodents. They are widely considered one of the easiest python species to feed — most accept rodents readily and rarely refuse meals when conditions are right.
Prey size should match the snake's mid-body girth — slightly wider than the head but not so large that it causes regurgitation. We exclusively feed frozen-thawed prey, never live, both for the safety of the animal and for ethical reasons.
Feeding Schedule
By age and size
| Age / Size | Prey | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Hatchling (0–6 mo) | Pinky / fuzzy mice | Every 5–7 days |
| Juvenile (6–18 mo) | Hopper to adult mouse | Every 7–10 days |
| Subadult (1.5–3 yr) | Small to medium rat | Every 10–14 days |
| Adult (3+ yr) | Medium to large rat | Every 14–21 days |
| Breeding female | Adjusted seasonally | Varies with cycle |