What you need to know about the Amethystine Python

Also known as the scrub python, the reptile is non-venomous.

The species is found in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Australia. 

The snake is named as such because when it is viewed from certain angles in direct sunlight, it displays an amethyst or sparkly shine all over its body. Popular among reptile enthusiasts, and noted for its colouration and size, it is one of the six largest snakes in the world, as measured either by length or weight, and is the largest native snake in Australia and Papua New Guinea. 

There is no record of Amethystine pythons being dangerous to human beings and they will do everything possible to avoid human contact. 

They are usually found in or near tropical rainforest and are generally nocturnal and aboreal, although they can be seen sunning themselves during the day. 

Amethystine pythons are carnivores with their diet including birds, bats, rats, possums, and other small mammals.

The 'scrub python' is Australia's longest snake and can grow up to a whopping 8.5m long.