Diamond Python
The diamond python is typically inoffensive by nature and generally reluctant to bite. This python is an ambush predators with large territories that often overlap. It moves around these territories seasonally to occupy well camouflaged positions in the warmer months and brumatein the winter months. Females have ranges up to 50 ha (120 acres); males may occupy areas almost twice as large. The diamond python is often active during the day and on warm nights
The diamond python is quite variable in colour and pattern, typically being predominantly dark olive to black in colour with most dorsal scales having a yellow (or cream) spot in the centre (hence spilota, meaning spotted). Along the body and tail are numerous clusters of yellow or cream scales that form "rosettes" that look a bit like diamonds (hence the common name). The underside is white, cream or even yellowish in colour, although it is often spotted with black.
The diamond python is found in southern coastal regions of New South Wales and Victoria. It lives in a variety of habitats, including heaths, woodland, forest, and urban areas. It is known to occupy the roof space of suburban homes, living on mice and rats. It has a limited distribution range in Victoria, where it is regarded as rare and threatened by reduction in available habitat.
