Rare Woma Pythons are here!

Captive breeding programs are very important in maintaining the existence of many reptiles. With the destruction of natural habitats, over hunting and the introduction of alien species many animals find it nearly impossible to survive in the wild. This is the case for the Woma Python that has now become critically endangered in many parts of it’s native Australia.

Woma Pythons (Aspidites ramsayi), also known as Ramsay’s Python, are now being bred in this country and we are lucky enough to have a pair here. They don’t grow too large compared to many species of python, maybe reaching 5 feet in length.  They eat rodents, birds and other reptiles that they find in burrows under the ground.

As burrows can be too small to coil and constrict prey the Woma Python has adapted to use an unusual way of killing. They can force a loop of their body against their prey and literally crush them against the burrow wall! Our Womas here are fed more conventionally, being offered frozen mice, with long tweezers.

Photo by Pete Milligan

As you can see from the pictures they are a very attractive snake with bands running down the length of their bodies. Unlike other pythons they lack heat sensing pits around the mouth. Due to their natural life underground, they have evolved relatively small heads. Perfect for exploring nooks and crannies in burrows.

Have a look at the pictures and let me know what you think. Do you have room for something a little different in your collection?