Australian Scrub Python

Simalia kinghorni

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The Australian scrub python, also known as simply the scrub python, is a large, non-venomous snake found in the tropical regions of northern Australia and and in several Islands of Torres Strait like Hinchinbrook.

This species is one of the largest snakes in the world, with individuals reaching lengths of up to 30 feet, although most are between 20-25 feet long.

The Australian scrub python has several common names like scrub python, amethystine python, sapphire python, Irian Jaya python.

The Australian scrub python has a thick, muscular body, with a broad head and a pointed snout. Their coloration can vary depending on the individual, but they are typically olive or dark green with yellow or white spots or bands running down the length of the body. Their underbelly is usually white or cream-colored.

These snakes are most commonly found in tropical rainforests and mangrove swamps, but they can also be found in rocky outcroppings, savannas and rocky deserts as well as woodlands.

They are arboreal, meaning that they live and hunt in trees, and are excellent climbers. They are also nocturnal, and use their camouflage to blend in with their surroundings while they hunt.

Subspecies / Taxonomy

Recently, the species has been reclassified to the genus Simalia alongside a few other former Morelia species. There are no subspecies knwon for the scrub python.

It's important to note that the classification of some species within this group is still debated among scientists and more studies are needed to understand all the relationships between the different python species.

Danger to humans

Despite their large size, Australian scrub pythons are not considered to be a threat to humans, as they are non-venomous snakes and they are not known to be aggressive towards people.

However, it's important to keep in mind that they are wild animals, and they should be respected and observed from a safe distance. If threatened, they may bite as a defense mechanism.

Diet / Feeding

The diet of the Australian scrub python is quite diverse, they are opportunistic hunters and will eat a wide variety of prey, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and even other snakes.

They are known to prey on marsupials such as bandicoots, wallabies and possums, as well as rats, lizards, and other reptiles. They are constrictors, which means that they kill their prey by coiling around it and squeezing it until it stops breathing.

Reproduction

Australian scrub python are oviparous, which means that they lay eggs to reproduce. Female will lay between 10-20 eggs at a time, and will coil around the eggs to keep them warm until they hatch. After hatching, the young snakes are on their own, and must fend for themselves.

Conservation / Threats

The Australian scrub python is not currently considered to be a threatened species, however, habitat destruction and over-collection for the pet trade has had an impact on their population numbers in certain areas.

Climate change also poses a threat to many animals and their habitats, so it is important to be aware of how our actions can affect wild animals and their ecosystems.

Overall, the Australian scrub python is an impressive and fascinating animal that plays an important role in the ecosystem. By understanding and respecting these beautiful snakes, we can help to protect them and preserve their populations for future generations to enjoy.

Did You Know?

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Scientific classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Serpentes
Family: Pythonidae
Genus: Simalia
Species: S. kinghorni

Australian Scrub python range