The Australian Reptile Park marked World Snake Day in epic fashion, bringing out the biggest heavyweights of the reptile world for a check-up in the sun. Fang the reticulated python and Jockey the Burmese python were carefully weighed and measured by the Park’s expert team—and both showed some serious growth.
To complete the task safely, four experienced keepers carried the massive snakes from their enclosures into the sunshine. Not only does basking serve as enrichment, but it also provides a perfect opportunity for a thorough health check. With snakes of this size and strength, every step must be taken with care. One wrong move could put a keeper at serious risk, making this a high-stakes job for the reptile team.
Jockey was first up, measuring 3.7 metres in length and tipping the scales at 56 kilograms—4 kilograms heavier than last year. Keepers used twine and a tape measure to gently record his size while keeping stress to a minimum.
Next came Fang, the Park’s powerful reticulated python, who stretched an incredible 5.7 metres and weighed in at 48 kilograms. She has gained 3 kilograms since her last check-up and is quickly catching up to Jockey. Reticulated pythons are the largest snake species in the world, and Fang is well on her way to becoming the heaviest in the Park.
“Both snakes are growing beautifully, which is exactly what we like to see,” said Dylan Wallis, Head of Reptiles. “Fang is especially impressive—she’s packing on size fast, and I have no doubt she’ll overtake Jockey in the near future. When it comes to pythons, size really does matter—it tells us they’re thriving.”
Routine measurements like these are an important part of snake care, giving keepers valuable insights into growth, diet, and overall wellbeing.
This World Snake Day, the Park is encouraging Aussies to embrace their curiosity about snakes. These remarkable reptiles play an important role in the environment, and their size, strength, and survival skills are nothing short of amazing.