Northwestern Carpet Python (Morelia spilota variegata) Familie: Pythons (Pythonidae) Orden: Squamates or Scaly Reptiles (Squamata)

Other names:  Often referred to as Morelia argus in older litterature. The various subspecies have various names: Eastern Carpet Python, Coastal Carpet Python (M. s. mcdowelli), Jungle Carpet Python (M. s. cheynei), Murray/Darling Carpet Python, Inland Carpet Python (M. s. metcalfei), Northwestern Carpet Python, Top End Carpet Python (M. s. variegata), Diamond Python (M. s. spilota), Southwestern Carpet Python, Western Carpet Python, Southern Carpet Python (M. s. imbricata). Size:  Up to 2,5 m. Distribution:  Australia (all states, except Tasmania). Habitat:  As a whole species considered, it is the most diverse Australian python in terms of habitat choices, although the Jungle Carpet Python (M. s. cheynei), for example, is only found in the northeastern rainforests of Queensland. The other subspecies are found in habitats ranging from temperate coastal heaths in the southeast, the wet tropics in the north, eucalypt growths along watercourses in the central and southeast, to forests along the east coast and in the southwest. Some populations are found in suburbs or near cities, and snakes may even seek shelter in the rafters of houses. They are most frequently found climbing in trees or rocks, although the may also be seen on the ground. Food:  Mainly mammals (as lare as wallabies) and birds, but reptiles and frogs are also taken. Reproduction:  Egglaying, with clutches of 9-52 eggs. Unusual for a reptile species, the mating behaviour differs from one subspecies to another. Males of the Eastern Carpet Python (M. s. mcdowelli) make ritual combats in the spring, whereas males of the Diamond Python (M. s. spilota) aggregate around receptive females and tolerate each others presence. Such a gathering of large snakes could be a bit of a surprising encounter for unexpecting bush walkers! Activity and behaviour:  Mostly nocturnal, although they are sometimes seen in the daytime basking or searching for food or a mate. Variation:  Divided in several subspecies which demonstrate so much variation that you might think they were different species. One of the more familiar forms is the Diamond Python (M. s. spilota) which is found in coastal areas in the southeastern part of the range. Other subspecies are bredli, imbricata, cheynei, mcdowelli, metcalfei, and variegata. Status:  Some populations are in no immediate danger, while others are protected in various degrees by state or national legislation. Notes:  The temperament of this species depends on the individual (almost like humans!). Some animals are docile and can be handled without problems, whereas others defend themselves by hissing loudly and attempting to bite. References: Wilson, S. & Swan, G. 2003. A complete guide to reptiles of Australia. Reed New Holland, Sydney. 480 pp. Text & layout: Rune Midtgaard

Gallery Home The Northwestern Carpet Python (above) and the Diamond Python belongs to one and the same species, which also counts several other races or subspecies. © Rune Midtgaard.