I’ve always been fascinated by reptiles, but few have captivated me quite like the jungle carpet python (Morelia spilota cheynei). This incredible snake, with its striking black and yellow stripes, is one of the most beautiful creatures I’ve ever come across. Every time I see one, I’m awestruck by its iconic pattern, which looks almost too perfect to be real.
If you’re a snake lover like me, you’ll probably be just as mesmerized by the photos I’ve included below. Read on to explore the mysterious world of the jungle carpet python, and enjoy some beautiful images of this jaw-dropping snake along the way.
Where Jungle Carpet Pythons Are Found in the Wild
I first learned about the jungle carpet python’s natural habitat while researching its origins. These medium-sized pythons are only found in a small region of the Northeastern Australian rainforests. Specifically, they call the tropical rainforests along the coastline to the east of Queensland home. The Atherton Mountains is where they really thrive, coiled up in the trees, surrounded by lush greenery.
It’s fascinating to think about how different their world is compared to ours. These snakes are semi-arboreal, meaning they spend most of their time in the trees. However, they do occasionally come down to the ground or even swim to hunt larger prey. What struck me the most is that these beautiful creatures are strictly protected in Australia. For several decades now, it’s been illegal to capture or kill jungle carpet pythons. All the ones we see in captivity, especially in North America, are bred by responsible breeders who’ve ensured that these snakes thrive in captivity.
Diet: What Jungle Carpet Pythons Eat
When it comes to diet, jungle carpet pythons are true carnivores. In the wild, they feast on birds, lizards, rodents, amphibians, and even other snakes. I was particularly fascinated to learn that they sometimes kill other pythons, which is a rare trait among snakes. They have an incredibly powerful body that allows them to constrict their prey with ease, and watching a python feed is both thrilling and a little intimidating.
One of the most interesting things I learned about the jungle carpet python is how they hunt. When they attack, they grab their prey with lightning speed and quickly suffocate it using their muscular coils. Within seconds, the prey is immobilized, and the python swallows it whole.
Physical Attributes, Size, and Longevity
The jungle carpet python’s appearance is truly something to behold. Their jet-black bodies, accented by vivid yellow stripes, are nothing short of breathtaking. As someone who’s handled several of these snakes, I can tell you that their eyes—oval and set on a V-shaped head—give them a look of both elegance and menace. Yet despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, these pythons are not aggressive toward humans.
When it comes to size, they can grow anywhere from 3 to 5 feet, with some individuals reaching even greater lengths in captivity. Females are typically larger than males, and their color becomes more vibrant with each shed. I remember the first time I saw a fully mature jungle carpet python—its glossy black and yellow colors were almost hypnotizing. It’s incredible to watch these snakes grow, as their colors seem to pop more with each passing year.
And they live long, too—up to 25 years in captivity, sometimes even longer. It’s a long commitment if you’re considering one as a pet, but I can attest to how rewarding it is to care for such a fascinating creature.
Jungle Carpet Python Reproduction
Breeding jungle carpet pythons is another remarkable aspect of their biology. As oviparous creatures, females lay anywhere from 2 to 4 dozen eggs after mating. I’ve always admired how maternal these snakes are—they’ll stay with their eggs for 4 to 8 weeks, providing warmth and protection. But once the eggs hatch, the babies are on their own. It’s a tough world out there for young pythons, and many fall prey to larger animals.
If you’re interested in breeding these snakes, it’s important to wait until the males are at least 2 years old and the females 4 years old. This ensures that the eggs are healthy and the clutches are strong.
Jungle Carpet Python Care Sheet: My Experience
From my personal experience, jungle carpet pythons make fantastic pets. They’re relatively easy to care for, and I’ve found them to be calm and docile once they get used to being handled. If you’re thinking about getting one, though, make sure to set up their enclosure with plenty of climbing space. These snakes love to bask and rest on elevated surfaces, so having branches or other accessories is essential.
In terms of feeding, jungle carpet pythons aren’t picky eaters. I usually offer mine a mix of rodents and the occasional frozen prey, which they readily accept. It’s important to handle them gently, especially after feeding, as they can be a bit defensive during this time.
What to Do If You’re Bitten
I’ve never been bitten by a jungle carpet python, but I’ve heard from others who have. Their bites aren’t venomous, so there’s no need to rush to the hospital. Instead, it’s best to calmly wash the wound and apply a bandage. One thing I’ve learned is that you should never yank a constricting snake off if it latches onto you. This could injure both you and the snake. Instead, pouring cold water or even a little liquor on the snake’s head usually does the trick.
Jungle Carpet Python Behavior and Temperament
Despite their fearsome appearance, these snakes are not typically aggressive. When I first started working with them, I was cautious, but I quickly learned that jungle carpet pythons are quite tolerant of handling. They’re naturally a bit more defensive when they’re young, but as they mature, they tend to mellow out.
In fact, many reports of aggression come from people who mishandle them. With patience and care, these snakes can become quite friendly, and I’ve found that they’re even more relaxed as adults.
My Final Thoughts on Jungle Carpet Pythons
If you’re thinking about getting a jungle carpet python, I highly recommend them. They’re beautiful, easy to care for, and offer a unique look into the reptile world. Just make sure you’re prepared for the commitment—they live long and deserve proper care.
Whether you’re a seasoned snake owner or a curious beginner, these pythons are sure to captivate you just as they did me.
