Inland Carpet Python
Morelia spilota metcalfei
A carpet python subspecies adapted to the drier inland regions of southeastern Australia, with a subdued olive-and-cream blotched pattern.
- Adult length
- 2-2.5 m (6.6-8.2 ft)
- Range
- Southeastern inland Australia (Murray-Darling Basin)
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Overview
The inland carpet python occupies the semi-arid woodlands and riverine corridors of the Murray-Darling Basin, making it one of the more drought- and cold-tolerant carpet python subspecies.
It relies heavily on river red gum forests and rocky habitats along inland waterways, where it shelters from temperature extremes.
How to identify it
- Olive-grey to brown background with paler cream or yellow blotches
- Generally more subdued pattern than coastal or jungle forms
- Smooth scales
- Broad head distinct from neck
- Heat-sensing labial pits present
- Distinguished from other carpet pythons by inland distribution and muted coloration
Habitat & range
Found through the Murray-Darling Basin of inland New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. Favors river red gum woodland, rocky outcrops, and riparian corridors along inland rivers.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and crepuscular, hunting small mammals and birds. Tolerates a wider range of temperatures than tropical carpet pythons, including cooler winters. Oviparous, with females brooding eggs in sheltered sites.
Frequently asked questions
Where is it found?
The Murray-Darling Basin of inland southeastern Australia.
How does it survive in a drier climate?
It shelters in river red gum hollows and rocky refuges near waterways to buffer temperature and moisture extremes.
What does it eat?
Small mammals and birds.
Inland Carpet Python guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Inland Carpet Python.
