Identification
The Carpet Python, Morelia spilota metcalfei, is a large species with more than 40 mid-body scale rows. Victorian specimens are usually dark grey in colour, with pale grey or cream patterning and grow to around 3 m in length.
Carpet Python
Photographer: Peter Robertson / Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty Ltd
Distribution and habitat
Once fairly common in the warmer northern areas of Victoria, the Carpet Python is now confined to local populations where it lives in tree hollows, or crevices in rocks.
Biology and bite
This snake will bask during the day but is primarily nocturnal, hunting for small to medium-sized, warm-blooded vertebrates at night. Females lay a clutch of 10 to 30 eggs in a cluster and care for them. The pythons are the only Victorian snakes to exhibit any form of parental care.
Carpet Pythons are non-venomous, but are capable of inflicting a painful bite. They kill their prey by constriction.
Carpet Python
Photographer: Peter Robertson / Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty Ltd
Further Reading
Coventry, A. J. and Robertson, P. 1991. The Snakes of Victoria – A Guide to their Identification. Department of Conservation & Environment/Museum of Victoria.
Cogger, H. 2000. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books.
Wilson, S. & Swan, G. 2003. Reptiles of Australia. Princeton University Press.