Aspidites melanocephalus

Description

Adults grow to an average of 1.5–2 m (4.9–6.6 ft)in total length, but can grow to a maximum total length of 3.5 m (11 ft). The body is muscular with a flattened profile, while the tail tapers to a thin point.

The top of the head is covered by large symmetrical scales. The dorsal scales, which are smooth and glossy, number 50-65 rows at midbody, while there are 315-355 ventral scales. The tail has 60-75 mainly single subcaudal scales and the anal scale is single. The posterior subcaudals tend to be divided, often irregularly.

The color pattern consists of shades of black, dark grey, brown, gold, and cream arranged in a striped or brindled pattern. The belly is light-coloured, flecked with darker spots. The head is shiny black that also extends down the neck and throat for several inches.

Geographic range

Found in Australia in the northern half of the country, excluding the very arid regions. The type locality given is "Port Denison Bowen" Queensland, Australia.

Habitat

Occurs in humid tropical to semi-arid conditions.

Behaviour

These snakes are terrestrial and are often found in amongst rocks and loose debris. If disturbed, they will hiss loudly, but are unlikely to bite unless hunting prey. They will sometimes strike with a closed mouth, but generally can be handled easily. They are strong swimmers, but are almost never found inside water. They are non-venomous.

Feeding

The diet consists of mainly reptiles, but they will eat mammals if available. Because black-headed pythons live in the desert, they heat up a lot quicker and stay warmer for longer. This means they can eat more because they digest food quicker in warmer conditions. When ingesting large prey this species positions one or two coils just ahead of its distended mouth and by constriction makes the task of swallowing easier.

Reproduction

Oviparous, with 5-10 eggs per clutch. The females stay coiled about the eggs and incubate them until they hatch, which is usually after 2–3 months. The young will take small prey as soon as two days after hatching. Immature individuals are vulnerable to predation, including cannibalism. Adults have no natural predators other than dingos and humans.

Captivity

Due to its docile nature and striking color pattern, this species has become very desirable as an exotic pet. It is bred in captivity and can be relatively easily obtained, but does command a high price. As they can be muscular snakes and reach a fairly substantial size, prospective owners should consider a suitable enclosure, as well as temperature and feeding requirements.

In human culture

These snakes are mentioned in, or play a central role in, the stories of the Indigenous Australians Dreamtime tradition.