Discover Nature at JCU Animals Reptiles and amphibians by scientific name Morelia amethistina

Morelia amethistina

Morelia amethistina

(Amethystine python)

FAMILY

Pythonidae

Species

Morelia amethistina

Common name

Amethystine python

Main colour

Grey to brown to greenish

Body size

To 5 m long

Location

Cairns, Townsville

Description

This python is Australia’s largest snake, distinguished by the iridescent upper surface of the body which is usually grey to green or brown with dark markings, the belly is pale grey to greenish-grey. Usually found in rainforest but has been found near buildings. It preys on mammals and birds and will bite but is not particularly dangerous.

2 images of python having eaten a scrub turkey

Photos show python resting after a meal of scrub turkey.