Description:
Scientific name: Antaresia maculosa
Life span: 20-30 years
Although there is a record of a specimen that measured 69 inches (180 cm), the usual adult is about 100-140 centimeters (39-55 in) long. Of the genus Antaresia, it is the largest species. All of its existence, it has an erratic, blotched color pattern. Due to the dark pigmentation occurring only on entire scales, the blotches have rough edges. It’s interesting that the male of this species was the largest specimen ever found, indicating that males of this species and others in the genus Antaresia may compete for females. Only captive specimens have shown this behavior; it has never been observed in the wild. In these situations, male combat mainly consists of biting, striking, and constricting. Most of the time, these snakes are nocturnal and semi-arboreal, with juvenile animals favouring higher hiding places than adults.
Native Region/Habitat
Native to Australia, the Spotted Python is widespread in eastern Queensland and northeastern New South Wales. They favour dry forests and woodlands with nearby cliffs, rock outcroppings, and caverns.
Behavior:
Spotted pythons have an extremely timid disposition. If given the proper care and attention, they can become amiable and overcome their shyness. Since they are non-venomous, they are already harmless species. Nascent spotted pythons occasionally bite because they are defensive creatures who feel threatened. But the adult Most spotted pythons have a fairly calm disposition. They rapidly become anxious.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
Spotted snakes are wonderful pets. They are frequently kept in collections in Australia and are gaining popularity in North America and Europe. Due to their calm disposition, beginners frequently keep them. Additionally, they are among the smaller species of Python, which can be quite alluring to newbie hobbyists.
These snakes can be fed a diet of frozen, thawed rats while in captivity. Pinkie mice can be fed to a hatchling Spotted Python every 5-7 days. As the snake becomes bigger, the rodent’s size should also get bigger.
The Spotted Python can be transferred to a bigger enclosure as it matures. A cage of 3 feet by 2 feet by 1.5 feet may accommodate an adult who is fully grown. Bigger isn’t necessarily preferable because overly large enclosures might stress out snakes.
The enclosure’s hot end should be around 85-90F, while the cool end should be maintained at about 75-80F.
Table
