Amethystine Python

Identification and appearance

A large python with an iridescent sheen. Its greenish, grey or brown upperparts carry darker patches and lines that may join into an irregular network.

Other names

Amethyst Python, Australian Scrub Python, Scrub Python

Typical length

AROD lists a species average of 350 cm and a maximum of 500 cm; these figures do not establish a typical adult interval.

Body build

slender

Head appearance

Large scales arranged symmetrically on top of the head

Key identification features

• Large, slender python
• Darker patches and lines on greenish, grey or brown upperparts
• Iridescent sheen

Where it is found

North-eastern Queensland, from around Townsville through Cape York to the Torres Strait.

Habitat

In north-eastern Queensland, this python occupies rainforest, coastal scrub and open forest.

Diet

Mainly mammals and birds; large individuals can take wallabies.

Reproduction

Egg-laying.

Medical significance

Non-venomous, but capable of biting. If identity is uncertain and a bite is suspected, call 000 and follow snakebite first aid.

What to do if you encounter one

Keep well clear, leave a route for the snake to move away and do not approach for a closer look. If it is inside a building, keep people and pets away and contact a qualified local snake catcher.

Similar-looking snakes

Photo: Andrew Mercer (www.baldwhiteguy.co.nz) · CC BY-SA 4.0 (Licence)

Pythonidae

Carpet Python

Morelia spilota

A patterned python that can live in woodland, gardens and buildings as well as less disturbed habitats. Brown and cream blotches are common, but some forms have much darker bodies with pale spots. The diamond python is included within this variable species.

Open identification guide →

Taxonomy notes

Older accounts treated the amethistina complex broadly and extended it into New Guinea; the current Simalia kinghorni account is restricted to Queensland and Torres Strait populations. Southern outliers require provenance review.