Black-headed python
Black-headed python | |
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Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Class: | Reptilia |
Order: | Squamata |
Suborder: | Serpentes |
Family: | Pythonidae |
Genus: | Aspidites |
Species: | A. melanocephalus
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Binomial name | |
Aspidites melanocephalus (Krefft, 1864)
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Distribution of the black-headed python | |
Synonyms | |
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The black-headed python (Aspidites melanocephalus)[3] is a species of snake in the family Pythonidae (the python family). The species is endemic to Australia. There are no subspecies that are recognized as being valid.
Description
Adults of A. melanocephalus typically grow to 1.5–2 m (4.9–6.6 ft) in total length (including tail),[5] 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
The color pattern consists of shades of black, dark grey, brown, gold, and cream arranged in a banded or brindled pattern. The belly is light-colored, flecked with darker spots. The head is shiny black that also extends down the neck and throat for several inches.
Distribution and habitat
The species A. melanocephalus is found in
Behavior
A. melanocephalus is terrestrial and is often found amongst rocks and loose debris. If disturbed, it hisses loudly, but is unlikely to bite unless hunting prey. It sometimes strikes with a closed mouth, but generally can be handled easily. It is a strong swimmer, but is almost never found in water. It is not venomous.
Feeding
The diet of A. melanocephalus consists mainly of
Reproduction
A. melanocephalus is oviparous. Adult females lay five to 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 take small prey as soon as two days after hatching. Immature individuals are vulnerable to predation. Adults have no natural predators other than dingos and humans.
Captivity
Due to its docile nature and striking color pattern, A. melanocephalus 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 it can be a muscular snake and reaches a fairly substantial size, prospective owners should consider a suitable enclosure, as well as temperature and feeding requirements.
In human culture
A. melanocephalus is mentioned in, or plays a central role in, the stories of the
References
- doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2017-3.RLTS.T13300710A13300718.en. Retrieved 19 November 2021.)
{{cite journal}}
: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link - ^ ISBN 1-893777-01-4(volume).
- ISBN 0-8069-6460-X.
- ^ Krefft G (1869). The Snakes of Australia; An Illustrated and Descriptive Catalogue of All the Known Species. Sydney: Thomas Richards, Government Printer. xxv + 100 pp. + index + Plates I–XII. (Aspidiotes melanocephalus, pp. 33–34 + Plate III & Plate V, figure 4).
- ISBN 0-7894-7764-5.
- ^ a b "Aspidites melanocephalus (Black-headed Python)". Animal Diversity Web.
- ^ White, Robyn White (19 October 2023). "Cannibalistic Snake Devours Fellow Black-Headed Python Alive". Newsweek.
Further reading
- Boulenger GA (1893). Catalogue of the Snakes in the British Museum (Natural History). Volume I., Containing the Families ... Boidæ .... London: Trustees of the British Museum (Natural History). (Taylor and Francis, printers). xiii + 448 pp. + Plates I–XXVIII. (Aspidites melanocephalus, p. 91).
- ISBN 978-0643100350.
- Krefft G (1864). "Description of Aspidiotes melanocephalus, a New Snake from Port Denison, N.E. Australia". Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London 1864: 20-22.
- ISBN 978-1921517280.
External links
- Black-headed Python video Accessed 30 June 2013
- Aspidites melanocephalus at the Reptarium.cz Reptile Database. Accessed 19 September 2007.
- The Creation Story of the Wardaman People at Renewing Women's Business. Accessed 19 September 2007.
- Black-Headed Python at Zoos Victoria. Accessed 19 September 2007.
- Aspidites melanocephalus at Python Pete Reptiles. Accessed 19 September 2007.