Cape York Carpet Python
Morelia spilota
A tropical locality form of the widespread carpet python found on the Cape York Peninsula of far northern Queensland, Australia.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.8-3 m (6-10 ft)
- Range
- Cape York Peninsula, northern Queensland, Australia
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Overview
The Cape York carpet python is a regional form of Morelia spilota inhabiting the tropical Cape York Peninsula at the northern tip of Queensland, Australia. Carpet pythons across Australia and New Guinea show substantial regional variation in color and pattern, and Cape York populations reflect the humid tropical conditions of this far-northern region.
As a member of the highly adaptable carpet python complex, it is a medium-to-large constrictor found in a wide range of tropical habitats from rainforest margins to open woodland.
How to identify it
- Base color ranges from olive, brown, or grey-brown with irregular darker blotches or a broken chain-like pattern along the back
- Head is triangular and distinct from the neck, with heat-sensing pits along the lips
- Pupils are vertically elliptical
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Large size for a carpet python locality, with a heavy build in mature individuals
- Pattern varies considerably between individuals even within this locality
Habitat & range
Occupies a broad range of habitats across Cape York Peninsula including tropical rainforest edges, monsoon forest, eucalypt woodland, and areas near watercourses. Found from sea level into low hill country, often near human habitation.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal but may bask or move by day in cooler weather. An opportunistic ambush and active forager, preying on birds, mammals, and reptiles, with larger adults capable of taking possums and similar-sized prey. Oviparous, with females coiling around and thermoregulating their egg clutches.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cape York carpet python a separate species?
No, it is a regional locality form of Morelia spilota, the carpet python, which shows considerable variation across its Australian and New Guinea range.
Is it venomous?
No, carpet pythons are non-venomous constrictors.
How large do they get?
Typically 1.8-3 m (6-10 ft), with some individuals growing larger.
Where exactly is Cape York?
The northernmost peninsula of Queensland, Australia, extending toward the Torres Strait and New Guinea.
Cape York Carpet Python guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Cape York Carpet Python.
