Morelia spilota cheynei, commonly known as the jungle carpet python, is a non-venomous subspecies of the carpet python (Morelia spilota), native to the rainforests of northeastern Queensland, Australia.
Common Name: Jungle Carpet Python
Scientific Name: Morelia spilota cheynei
Family: Pythonidae
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN)
Lifespan: 15–25 years in captivity
Length: Typically 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 meters), though can reach up to 10 feet
Found in tropical rainforests and eucalyptus woodlands in northeastern Queensland, including areas near the Atherton Tablelands and Cape York Peninsula.
This python prefers humid environments and is semi-arboreal, meaning it spends time both on the ground and in trees.
Known for its striking black and yellow (or gold) banded pattern, which varies between individuals.
Considered one of the most visually stunning pythons in the world, especially among carpet python subspecies.
Carnivorous: Feeds on mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Uses constriction to subdue prey.
In captivity, they eat rodents like mice and rats.
Mostly nocturnal and solitary.
Generally docile in captivity if handled regularly, but wild specimens can be defensive.
Excellent climbers and swimmers.
Oviparous (egg-laying): Females lay clutches of 10–50 eggs.
The female coils around the eggs to incubate them, shivering to maintain warmth.
Hatchlings are independent from birth.
Popular among reptile keepers for their beauty and manageable size.
Require a large, secure enclosure with proper heat and humidity.
Known for having individual temperaments—some are calm, others more feisty.
Despite their intimidating appearance, jungle carpet pythons are not dangerous to humans and play a vital role in their ecosystems by controlling pest populations.
Morelia spilota cheynei, commonly known as the jungle carpet python, is a non-venomous subspecies of the carpet python (Morelia spilota), native to the rainforests of northeastern Queensland, Australia.
Common Name: Jungle Carpet Python
Scientific Name: Morelia spilota cheynei
Family: Pythonidae
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN)
Lifespan: 15–25 years in captivity
Length: Typically 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 meters), though can reach up to 10 feet
Found in tropical rainforests and eucalyptus woodlands in northeastern Queensland, including areas near the Atherton Tablelands and Cape York Peninsula.
This python prefers humid environments and is semi-arboreal, meaning it spends time both on the ground and in trees.
Known for its striking black and yellow (or gold) banded pattern, which varies between individuals.
Considered one of the most visually stunning pythons in the world, especially among carpet python subspecies.
Carnivorous: Feeds on mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Uses constriction to subdue prey.
In captivity, they eat rodents like mice and rats.
Mostly nocturnal and solitary.
Generally docile in captivity if handled regularly, but wild specimens can be defensive.
Excellent climbers and swimmers.
Oviparous (egg-laying): Females lay clutches of 10–50 eggs.
The female coils around the eggs to incubate them, shivering to maintain warmth.
Hatchlings are independent from birth.
Popular among reptile keepers for their beauty and manageable size.
Require a large, secure enclosure with proper heat and humidity.
Known for having individual temperaments—some are calm, others more feisty.
Despite their intimidating appearance, jungle carpet pythons are not dangerous to humans and play a vital role in their ecosystems by controlling pest populations.
