Talk about an “extreme” makeover – our python habitat recently received a refresh! Home to 13-year-old Brittany the Burmese python and 7-year-old Tsodilo the African rock python, their habitat at the entrance of our Expedition Africa loop has undergone quite a few changes with the goal, as always, to increase their wellbeing.

While their previous habitat’s set up had everything to meet their basic needs – heat, natural substrate, water access, spots to bask in, etc. – the space didn’t emulate the duo’s natural habitats, said Nicole Payne, one of our Curators of Animals. By providing Tsodilo and Brittany a more naturalistic habitat, we expand their choice and control in where and how they spend their time in a way that’s appropriate for their species.

“This will be incredibly beneficial for their wellbeing by providing appropriate mental stimulation as well as physical challenges tailored to each individual’s capabilities,” Nicole said.

Herps & Aquatics keeper Jordan Lowery organized the efforts. The first task: creating a proper pool fit for Brittany the Burmese python, naturally a swamp and jungle dwelling animal. While Brittany rarely entered her previous pool, she showed interest in water when keepers provided it to her. Brittany was injured at her previous facility, and the area is beginning to develop arthritis, which may explain why she rarely entered the previous high-walled tub.

“So, we searched for a pool big enough to fit her but also small enough for us to build up the ground around the pool to make possible for her to get in without climbing,” Jordan said.

The perfect pond was found and our animal care team worked hard to develop an easier entry experience as well as circulating water for Brittany. “In native habitat spaces, still water equals stagnate and dangerous water, so many animals refuse still water in a dish, even if it is clean,” Jordan said.

While we haven’t seen her soak yet, we have seen her testing the water!

Neither species of python live in large open spaces, Jordan said. Both of their natural ranges are full of plants, branches and rocks. The Herps & Aquatics team noticed Tsodilo especially rarely left his box during the day. By adding new plants, logs and rocks, we hope to give him potential spaces and crevices for him to fit under or in. Jordan chose plants and rocks that simulated the elements found in their natural ranges.

Although there are a few “polishes” still going into the space, our Herps & Aquatics team has already seen Tsodilo exploring his new setup! A camera in the habitat spotted him checking over every inch of a new novel log.

“We are very happy to see him explore like this,” Jordan said. “One of the things we look at when considering any animal’s wellbeing is space use. Are they able to explore their entire habitat and are they motivated to explore their entire habitat?”

We hope you’ll stop by soon to see what Brittany and Tsodilo might be up to in their refreshed space!

“With a more naturalistic habitat, guests will be able to have a better glimpse of what kind of habitat these animals live in and will hopefully see more natural behaviors and be able to appreciate them even more,” Nicole said.

Special thanks to Flammio Financial Group, Stifel-Garvin Wealth Management Group, Artemis IT, and Jim and Darleen Barfield. Their generosity makes our work possible! 

Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.