Amethystine python

Description:

The amethystine or scrub python is Australia’s largest snake, growing to lengths of 8.5 metres, but more commonly 3.5-7.5 metres. Although long, it is quite slender with an elongated head. The snakes are light to dark brown and can have a dark brown to black zig-zag pattern that sometimes looks like bands. Their underbellies are white or cream coloured. The amethystine python is non-venomous, killing its prey by constriction after grabbing it in its jaws or with its body. The snakes have a prehensile tail, which means they can use their tail to grip things, and this helps them move through the trees. The young spend most of their time in trees, but the adults are more likely to be on the ground. Warm-blooded prey are detected at night by a series of heat-seeking pits along the jaw.

Habitat:

Occurs in both bushland and suburbia. In Indonesia and northern tropical Queensland, Australia, it is found mostly in rainforests. Warm, humid habitats with good water sources are preferred. In northern Australia and New Guinea, it mostly lives in scrublands.

Notes:

Spotted in Paluma Range National Park, Australia. (sources:see reference)