Thermoregulation in pythons—I. Effect of shelter, substrate type and posture on body temperature of the australian carpet python, Morelia spilotes variegata

Abstract

1. 1. Carpet pythons, Morelia spilotes variegata, were subjected to various conditions of substrate and shelter and their behavior observed and correlated with body temperature measured by radio telemetry. 2. 2. Contrary to some previously reported results, carpet pythons did not maintain nocturnal body temperatures above ambient or substrate ones. 3. 3. Mean preferred temperature during the day was 31·3°C. 4. 4. Values near the mean preferred temperature were maintained by basking and postural changes.