Olive python facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Olive python |
|
|---|---|
.jpg) |
|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Liasis
|
| Species: |
olivaceus
|
 |
|
| Distribution of the olive python | |
| Synonyms | |
|
|
Liasis olivaceus, commonly called the olive python, is a species of snake in the family Pythonidae. The species is endemic to Australia. Two subspecies are recognized as being valid, including the nominate subspecies described here.
Contents
Description
With adults reaching over 4 m (13 feet) in total length (including the tail), L. olivaceus is Australia's second-largest snake species (surpassed only by the amethystine python). Its high number of dorsal scale rows (61–72 at midbody), makes the skin look smoother than that of other pythons. The number of ventral scales is 355–377. The colour pattern is a uniform chocolate brown to olive green, while the belly is usually cream-coloured.
Unfortunately, this species is occasionally confused with the venomous king brown snake, Pseudechis australis, and is often mistakenly killed.
Distribution and habitat
Liasis olivaceus is found in Australia in Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland. The type locality given is "North Australia; Port Essington" (Northern Territory, Australia).
Habitat
Liasis olivaceus occurs in rocky areas, gorges and especially rocky areas near sources of water. Typically, shelter is sought in caves and rock crevices, but individuals have also been found in hollow logs and in burrows under rocks.
Diet
The diet of L. olivaceus consists of birds, mammals and other reptiles, including rock-wallabies, fruit bats, ducks and spinifex pigeons. It prefers to lie in wait next to an animal trail to ambush its prey. Alternatively, it is a strong swimmer and also hunts in waterholes, striking at prey from under the water. It is also known to prey on monitor lizards and crocodiles.
Reproduction
Mating activity of L. olivaceus starts in May and continues until mid-July. When successful, this is followed by a gestation period of 81–85 days, after which the oviparous female lays 12–40 eggs in late spring. The average clutch size is around 19 eggs. The hatchlings emerge after an incubation period of about 50 days, each measuring about 35 cm in length.
Subspecies
| Subspecies | Taxon author | Common name | Geographic range |
|---|---|---|---|
| L. o. barroni | L.A. Smith, 1981 | Pilbara olive python | Australia in the Pilbara region of Western Australia |
| L. o. olivaceus | Gray, 1842 | Olive python | Australia from the Kimberley region in Western Australia to the area around Mount Isa in Queensland |
Captivity
The olive python is often kept as a pet and is bred in captivity. It is technically an advanced level species due to its size, habitat requirements and strong feeding response, requiring a terrarium of a minimum of 2.4 metres (8 ft) long, by 1 metre (3 ft) high and 1 metre (3 ft) wide. However, if raised properly, it is noted to be friendly, curious and calm. It is generally recommended that in removing it from its enclosure that snake hooks be used so as to prevent the feeding response from being triggered, and once out, it can generally be freely handled calmly due to its placid nature.
Images for kids
-
Close-up of head and scales
See also
In Spanish: Liasis olivaceus para niños
