Oenpelli python
| Oenpelli Python | |
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| Genus: | Morelia
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| Species: | M. oenpelliensis
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| Binomial name | |
| Morelia oenpelliensis | |
Geographic Range and Habitat
The Oenpelli Python is restriced to the sandstone massif of western Arnhem Land in Northern Territory. Within this area, it has been reported from the upper catchments of Cadell, South Alligator and East Alligator River systems. It occurs only in one conservation reserve, Kakadu National Park.
Description
The Oenpelli Python is very large (up to 4m length) dark olive-brown python, patterned with darkened blotches. Underside is cream to dark yellow.
Behavior
There has been no detailed studies of this species. It shelters in cracks, caves and crevices of rugged broken escarpments of gorges. Its diet comprises mostly large mammals, particulary possums and macropods. As a large solitary predator feeding on prey at relativerly low abundance, it's total population size is propably under 10,000 mature individuals. There is no information available on population substructure.