SPOTTED PYTHON

Antaresia maculosa

     The Spotted Python, also known as eastern Children’s python, is found in various parts of Australia, including the northern regions of Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Queensland, and New South Wales. They inhabit a range of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and rocky areas.

 

It is a relatively small python species, with adults typically reaching lengths 90 to 120 cm.  They have a slender body with a distinctive pattern of dark brown or black spots on a light or pale background colour. The spots can vary in size and shape.

 

Spotted Pythons are carnivorous and primarily feed on small vertebrates, such as mammals, birds, lizards, and occasionally frogs. They are non-venomous and rely on constriction to subdue their prey.

 

These pythons are primarily terrestrial, although they are capable climbers and can sometimes be found in trees or shrubs. They are nocturnal, becoming more active at night to hunt for prey. During the day, they may seek shelter in crevices or under rocks.

 

    Spotted Pythons are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Breeding typically occurs during the warmer months, with females laying a clutch of 6 to 15 eggs. The eggs are deposited in a sheltered location and left to incubate for several months until they hatch.

Habitat loss and fragmentation due to urbanization and agriculture can impact their populations. They are protected under Australian law, and it is illegal to harm or remove them from the wild without appropriate permits.

 

If you come across a Spotted Python or any other wildlife in their natural habitat, it’s important to maintain a safe distance and observe without causing disturbance. Following local regulations and guidelines ensures the well-being of the snakes and their ecosystem.

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