Diamond Pythons: FAQ After An Encounter.
The colour of Diamond Pythons can vary significantly across the Sydney region, as demonstrated by this darker specimen from Hornsby.
Diamond pythons, commonly found in Sydney, especially in the northern suburbs, account for nearly half of the Northern suburbs snake catcher call-outs. Their significant size makes them more noticeable than smaller snake species. Typically, when residents report a Diamond python, it's often post-feeding, usually having consumed a ringtail possum, a frequent part of their diet. Post-meal, these snakes become less mobile and tend to stay nearby, curled up as they digest, which can take up to a couple of weeks. These snakes are harmless to humans and are usually relocated to nearby bushland, keeping them within their natural range. Nonetheless, if found near busy roads, relocating them further away is wise to prevent potential future accidents or injuries.
Fast Facts: Diamond Python - Morelia spilota spilota
Description: Quite variable in colour and pattern, the base colour is typically dark olive to black, with most dorsal scales having a yellow (or cream) spot in the centre. Along the body are clusters of yellow or cream scales that form rosettes. Typically, the further south you go, the darker the snake with fewer rosettes, with animals north of Gosford can be quite vibrant with lots of yellows. Around NSWs Mid North Coast, they interbreed with coastal carpet pythons (Morelia spilota variegata), often called Intergrades.
Length: 2m – 2.5m
Diet: Skinks as juveniles, transitioning to mammals and birds as they mature.
Reproduction: Most Diamond pythons are encountered between September and November when males search for a mate. Females lay between 15-30 eggs and will incubate eggs by coiling around them for two months.
A rare trait among reptiles is the maternal care shown by pythons. After laying their eggs, the female coils around them for about two months, protecting them until they hatch.
This diamond python was spotted on and off throughout the summer in Wheeler Heights. The homeowners had no idea she had been incubating eggs in the grass tussocks in their backyard—until the hatchlings began to emerge. Sightings like this are rare and a real treat for reptile enthusiasts.
In total, 16 baby diamond pythons successfully hatched and were released into the bushland next to the property in Wheeler Heights.
Notes: Mainly Nocturnal. Still, a common sight in Sydney suburbs adjoining bushland, Diamonds seem to have adapted well to a life in our ceilings and sheds where they keep rats and possums in check. They are generally relaxed around humans and seem content to go about their business with little concern from interested onlookers.
This Diamond Python had just eaten a possum in Allambie Heights and was in a food coma near the path leading to the house. To keep it safe from the family dog, we relocated it to a more suitable spot nearby. With Diamond Pythons, we always aim to move them as close as possible to where they were found—usually within a few hundred metres.
A large Diamond python relocated from a garden in St Ives.
Diamond Pythons are capable of consuming large meals. In most cases their preferred food is Ring Tailed Possums. A meal this size can sustain the snake for several months.
This Diamond Python managed to reach a third-floor sunroom, where it was found basking in the sunlight by the surprised homeowners—who said they hadn’t seen a snake in their 25 years of living in Castle Cove.
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