Spotted Python
Antaresia maculosa
Non-Venomous
Other common names: Eastern Small Blotched Python
Species Profile
Spotted Python
Significance to Humans
Non-Venomous
The Spotted Python while non-venomous, its bite may cause minor lacerations or punctures.
General Description
The Spotted Python is a solidly-built snake, though smaller compared to the Coastal Carpet Python. Fawn or pale-brown ground colour, adorned with a striking dark, chocolatey-brown mottled and blotched pattern. The underside is mostly cream-coloured. Its head is distinct from the neck. Midbody scales at 37-44 rows.
Average Length
Average length from 75cm to 1 metres, but large specimens may reach up to 1.5 metres in length.
Habitat in SE Qld
Preferred habitat includes rocky outcrops and associated ridges within dry forests and woodlands. It is commonly found in areas with frequent ground timber and can also be seen on the periphery of suburbs and disturbed farmland.
General habits
The Spotted Python is primarily a nocturnal creature, being most active during the night.
Diet
Feeds on small mammals, birds, and lizards.
Local distribution
Considered uncommon in the Central Brisbane region. However, it can occasionally be found in outer suburbs and urban bushland. Scattered local populations exist throughout the Lockyer and Brisbane Valleys, with specimens recorded from Karana Downs, Bardon, The Gap, and Samford, where suitable habitat features persist.
Around the home
Although relatively uncommon to encounter, the Spotted Python may utilise ground level refugia such as rock walls, sheet iron, and timber piles near human settlements.
Spotted Python Gallery
