Diamond Python
Click to enlarge image
© Australian Museum
Fast Facts
-
Classification
- Genus
- Morelia
- Species
- spilota spilota
- Family
- Pythonidae
- Suborder
- Serpentes
- Order
- Squamata
- Subclass
- Lepidosauria
- Class
- Reptilia
- Subphylum
- Vertebrata
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Kingdom
- Animalia
-
- Size Range
- 2 m - 3 m
Introduction
A Diamond Python in your roof will not cause any damage but will help control rats and possums.
© Stephen Mahony
Where do Diamond Pythons live?
Habitat
The Diamond Python is found in large bushland areas and national parks of Sydney, but often goes undetected because of its nocturnal, slow-moving habits.
Distribution
The Diamond Python is found in coastal areas of New South Wales.
What do Diamond Pythons eat and how have they adapted?
Feeding and diet
Like all pythons, the Diamond Python kills its prey by wrapping itself around its victim (in this case, small mammals and lizards) and suffocating it.
Other behaviours and adaptations
During the day, the Diamond Python may be seen basking in trees and occasionally it is found in roofs and rafters.
© CC BY-NC 4.0
Specimen in our collection
View microCT scans of a Diamond Python (Morelia spilota spilota) from the Australian Museum Herpetology Collection (specimen AM R.166998). Learn more about microCT scanning and how it is used by the Australian Museum Research Institute.
What is the life cycle of Diamond Pythons?
Life history cycle
The female Diamond Python lays eggs and coils around them to protect them and keep them warm. This maternal care, which is uncommon in snakes, ceases once the offspring hatch.
Are Diamond Pythons endangered?
Conservation status
The Diamond Python is not as widespread in Sydney as it once was and, although it is not considered endangered, it is under pressure from habitat destruction.
© CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
Are Diamond Pythons dangerous?
Danger to humans
Pythons are non-venomous but can inflict a painful bite. Teeth can break off and remain embedded in the victim.
