Black-headed Python

About the Black-headed Python

The black-headed python (Aspidites melanocephalus) 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. Adults of A. melanocephalus typically grow to 1.5–2 m (4.9–6.6 ft) in length (including tail), but can grow to a maximum 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 315-355 ventral scales occur. 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 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.

The species A. melanocephalus is found in Australia, in the northern half of the country, excluding the very arid regions... Wikipedia →