Thinking big – ein Leben mit Netzpythons
Karsten Wöllner (Bissendorf)
The retic
python (Python reticulatus) is the largest living species of
pythons. In some examples it can reach more than 9 metres in
lenght, but animals longer than 7,5 metres are extremely
rare. The average length of females is about 5,5 metres, of
males about 4 metres. A 6 metre long animal weights about 100
kilograms. The popular saying that the retic reaches 7 to 10
metres in average is exaggeration. Through the discovery of
dwarf forms on some remote Indonesian islands retics have
found new friends during the last years.
Keeping retics asks for certain prerequisites regarding cages
and handling. This species is reported to be nervous and
aggressive in wild-caught animals, but true captive bred
animals are normally quite and easy to handle. But always
keep in mind that a 4 metre long snake can overpower you.
Karsten
Wöllner has been concentrating on retics for the last 15
years. He owns about 20 adults, among them „Big Betty“ (a bit
over 7 metres, just under 150 kg), one of the largest known
snakes in the world to date. And there are lots of captive
bred animals living in the specially designed terrariums.
Karsten has specialized on the natural colour morphs and is
an internationally renowned breeder of this species who has
shared his knowledge in TV and print media. With his company
filaretic he gives insight into the world of retics in a
comprehensive approach.
In his lecture Karsten will report on successful methods of
keeping and breeding retics with lots of tips and tricks. He
will also talk about conditions of settling freshly bought
animals and the challenges you will be facing when buying a
retic. Lots of little stories from his own and other keepers'
experience plus a large number of photographs will round up
this fascinating journey through his life with retics.
More information:
www.filaretic.de
