Children’s Python

Identification and appearance

A small python with variable blotches. Northern forms may lose their rounded dark markings as they mature; inland forms formerly called Stimson’s Python have reddish-brown blotches on a paler background.

Other names

Stimson's Python

Typical length

AROD reports an average of 70 cm and maximum of 127 cm for its northern-form account. The Australian Museum’s older Stimson’s Python account gives a 75 cm average and maximum around 1 m. These source-specific figures do not establish an adult interval or ceiling for the combined species.

Key identification features

• Variable blotched pattern
• Northern-form markings may fade with age
• Includes inland forms formerly called Stimson’s Python

Where it is found

Northern Australia in the older AROD form account; current taxonomic references include New South Wales and South Australia under the broader Antaresia childreni concept that incorporates Antaresia stimsoni.

Habitat

Uses woodland and forest near the coast as well as dry inland country and rocky escarpments. Shelter sites include burrows, hollow timber and rock crevices or caves.

Activity

Hunts mainly on the ground at night, but can also catch passing bats while hanging from cave roofs.

Diet

For the northern form, AROD reports small mammals and reptiles, as well as frogs and birds.

Reproduction

Egg-laying; AROD gives a mean clutch of seven for its northern-form account.

Medical significance

Non-venomous, but capable of biting. Keep your distance; if the snake is unidentified and a bite is suspected, call 000 and follow snakebite first aid.

What to do if you encounter one

Keep your distance and leave the snake a clear route away. Do not handle it, chase it for a photograph or attempt to inspect its mouth. If it is inside a building, keep people and pets clear and contact a qualified local snake catcher.

Similar-looking snakes

Photo: Max Tibby · CC0 1.0 (Licence)

Pythonidae

Spotted Python

Antaresia maculosa

A patterned python with ragged-edged blotches and heat pits on the lower labial scales. This species-level record covers the east-coast nominotypical form and the Cape York subspecies Antaresia maculosa peninsularis.

Open identification guide →

Taxonomy notes

Antaresia stimsoni is treated as a synonym of A. childreni in current taxonomic references; NSW and SA records reflect that broader species concept, while older AROD size and ecology details are northern-form evidence.