Woma Python
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Aspidites ramsayi or the Woma Python
The woma is one of two Australian pythons that don't have heat pits (the other being the black-headed python). The woma lives in the sandy deserts and adjacent areas of all Australian States, except Victoria and Tasmania. In some parts the woma is referred to as the sand python. Burrows provide womas with both shelter and food. The woma will utilise burrows, including those of rabbits, to escape the scorching summer day time heat, and for shelter from the cold desert winters. They will scoop sand aside with their head to form a large depression in which to fit their coiled body for resting.
When a potential prey item is found in a burrow the woma will slam it into a corner with an uncoiled loop of its body to suffocate it. Unlike other snakes, the woma python likes to feed on a variety of animals including many species of reptile. This predilection for cold-blooded prey includes venomous snakes. Whilst feeding on venomous snakes this python may receive bites from its prey item.
The chemical make up of the woma makes venoms that kill humans in a relatively short time useless against this animal.
Womas lays their eggs during spring. Despite the large size of the adult snake, only a few eggs (about eight) are laid.
Did you know...
- In some parts of the country, the woma python is referred to as the sand python.
- Womas lays their eggs during spring. Despite the large size of the adult snake, only a few eggs (about eight) are laid.
- Burrows provide womas with both shelter and food. The woma will utilise burrows, including those of rabbits, to escape the scorching summer day time heat, and for shelter from the cold desert winters.
- When a potential prey item is found in a burrow, the woma python will slam it into a corner with an uncoiled loop of its body to suffocate it.
Where the Woma Python can be found in Australia:
