BLACK-HEADED PYTHON

The Black-headed is a species of non-venomous snake native to Australia. It is found in various regions across northern and central Australia. Its range extends from the Kimberley region in Western Australia, through the Northern Territory and Queensland, and into the north-eastern regions of South Australia.

This python species inhabits a range of different habitats, including rocky outcrops, grasslands, savannas, and woodlands. It is often associated with rocky areas and is known to seek refuge in crevices and hollows.

The Black-headed Python is a medium-sized python with a robust body. It typically reaches lengths of 1.5 to 2.5 meters. As the name suggests, it has a distinctive black head, which contrasts with its lighter-colored body. The body can vary in colour and pattern, but it often features a combination of dark brown or black patches on a lighter background.

These pythons are constrictors, which means they capture and subdue their prey by coiling around them and squeezing. In the wild, their diet mainly consists of small to medium-sized mammals, such as rodents and small marsupials. They are also known to consume birds and reptiles.

Black-headed Pythons are generally nocturnal, becoming more active at night to hunt for prey. They are known for their climbing ability and are often observed basking on rocks or in trees during the day. They are relatively docile snakes and are not considered aggressive. When threatened, they may hiss, inflate their bodies, and strike if necessary.

Breeding typically occurs in the spring and early summer. Female Black-headed Pythons lay clutches of eggs, usually numbering between 10 and 20, in termite mounds, hollow logs, or other suitable locations. The female guards the eggs until they hatch, which takes about two to three months.

Habitat destruction, including the clearing of land for agriculture, pose a threat to their populations in some areas.