White Lipped Python

The White Lipped Python was first discovered and described in 1878. It is a large, non-venomous snake found in Southeast Asia.

The White Lipped Python is an excellent swimmer and can be found near water bodies, such as swamps and marshes.

They are also known to climb trees in search of prey.

White Lipped Pythons are large snakes, growing up to six feet long in some cases.

Here are some key facts about the white-lipped python:

• Scientific name is Leiopython albertisii. It is a species of nonvenomous python found in New Guinea.
• Adults average 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m) long but can reach lengths over 8 feet (2.4 m).
• Coloration is tan, brown or reddish-brown with distinctive white or yellow lips, chin and belly. Some individuals may have scattered dark blotches on the flanks.
• Nocturnal hunter that ambushes prey including birds, bats, rats and mice. Kills by constriction.
• Lays clutches of 6-23 eggs. Displays egg-brooding behavior where female incubates eggs.
• Occupies a variety of lowland and hill forests across New Guinea. Adept climber and swimmer.
• Populations are decreasing due to overcollection for the pet trade and habitat loss. Classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List.
• Sometimes kept as an exotic pet but requires extensive care and housing. Docile but may bite or constrict if threatened.

In summary, the white-lipped python is a large, attractive constrictor endemic to the island of New Guinea.

They are declining in the wild but can still be found in captive collections. Handling requires caution due to their powerful constriction abilities.

Explain it to a child

White Lipped Python bodies can be different shades of brown, yellow, grey, and green. They have white or cream stripes running along the sides.

One of their distinguishing features is the light-colored eye stripe that runs along each side of the body down to its hip region, giving them a very distinct appearance among pythons. 

What is white-lipped python?

The white-lipped python, also known by its scientific name Leiopython albertisii, is a species of snake found in New Guinea and parts of Indonesia.

This large python has a pale yellow to green colored body, with darker bands along its back, and a distinctive white ring encircling its lips hence earning its namesake.

Whilst they inhabit humid rainforest floors they are also able to slither up trees and often bask in the sunlight along the jungle canopy.

As carnivores, they hunt mostly small mammals such as marsupials and rodents making them agile climbers but also fierce predators on the ground.

How big is a white lipped python?

These magnificent creatures can stretch up to an impressive six feet in length.

This makes them one of the larger members of their family, but they also tend to be relatively slender and lightweight compared to other snakes.

Due to their size, these pythons need quite a bit of space to move around and are best suited for large tanks with ample room for climbing and exploring.

Are white lipped pythons venomous?

White lipped pythons are considered to be non-venomous, however, they do possess some of the components for venom.

Essentially, these large reptiles have adapted over time to be able to produce an enzyme within their saliva that when mixed with their bite power can cause some level of discomfort or harm in prey animals.

In addition, some people have reported mild allergic reactions after handling white-lipped pythons.

Although these cases are rare, it is important to remain cautious.

How long a white lipped python can live?

How long a white lipped python can live is something many potential owners don’t think of and it turns out they should.

On average, these impressive reptiles can live up to 20 years in captivity which means you may be bringing this beautiful snake into your home for many years to come – perhaps even two decades!

Where do white lipped pythons live?

White lipped pythons are a species of python that is native to tropical Australia and Oceania, specifically the Bismarck Archipelago, Papua New Guinea, the Aru Islands, and some islands in the Torres Strait.

1. Commonly inhabiting areas of rainforests, woodlands, and savannahs, these adaptable reptiles can also be found in coastal rainforests, as well as rocky areas near riverbanks.
2. During the dry season, they tend to gravitate towards sheltered areas with abundant amounts of vegetation.
3. As good climbers, white lipped pythons often seek out shade under ledges or rocks in order to thermoregulate their body temperature.

They are excellent swimmers and have even been observed crossing floods between islands in some parts of their range!

Are white lipped pythons aggressive?

White lipped pythons can be calm and docile.

They are not a species perceived as being naturally aggressive but rather if provoked or startled, they may respond defensively.

It is advised to research their behaviors and consult with experts before pursuing ownership of any python.

• Moreover, regular interactions with the animals such as feeding sessions or engaging in conversations in their presence will help ensure they remain friendly and content.
• With the right knowledge and respect for these animals, a harmonious relationship between humans and white lipped pythons can certainly be sustained.

Are white lipped pythons good pets?

It largely depends on your experience level as a reptile owner and willingness to provide appropriate care of course.

• This python species does demand close monitoring, specific environmental needs, and constant husbandry.
• However, if you are willing to provide expert care, the white lipped python can make for a loving companion that is relatively easy to feed and handle.

White lipped pythons have also become popular pets due to their beautiful coloration, docile nature when handled regularly, and generally peaceful temperament.

What do white lipped pythons eat?

These large snakes are carnivorous, meaning that their diet consists of mainly small animals such as birds, bats, rodents, and even occasionally lizards or frogs.

What’s more, these pythons love eating eggs both from chickens and other reptiles which they will often hunt at night.

Overall, white-lipped pythons’ natural diet can be quite varied, proving just how adaptable of a predator this species is!

How to take care of white lipped pythons?

In order to keep these reptiles happy and healthy, there are some important considerations for their care.

One of the most important things to consider is setting the proper temperature and humidity levels in their enclosure.

White lipped pythons require heat gradients between 85 degrees Fahrenheit on the cool side and 95 degrees Fahrenheit on the hot side.

In addition, they require high humidity levels of around 80%, which can be achieved through regular misting.

Since adult white lipped pythons require large enclosures, it’s important to provide plenty of sturdy branches for them to climb and explore.

When it comes to feeding, white lipped pythons should be offered 1-2 appropriately sized prey items every 7-10 days, with leftovers promptly removed.

Rounding out proper care is ensuring that your python has access to clean, filtered water at all times.

By providing these basic necessities you can ensure that your white lipped python stays healthy and contented for years to come!

White Lipped Pythons make excellent additions for those looking for an exotic pet that won’t take up too much space compared to larger Burmese Pythons, Reticulated Pythons, or African Rock Python specimens just remember not to underestimate their occasional defensive behaviors when caged!