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This page is about the staggering White Lipped Python (Leiopython albertisii)


  • The White Lipped Python (Leiopython Albertsii) also known as, D'Albertis' python, D'Albert's water python are found in most of New Guinea (below 1200 m), including the islands of Salawati and Biak, Normanby, Mussau and Emirau, as well as a few islands in the Torres Strait.
  • Associated with rain forests, cutover clearings and swamps, they are usually found near water, into which they may quickly retreat if disturbed. They often hide under dead leaves on forest floor.
  • Female adults of the northern white-lipped python (Leiopython albertisii) grow to an average of about 213 cm in length (7 ft). They are pattern less, except the northern white-lipped python has some light markings on its postoculars.
  • The snout is triangular and the head is distinct from the neck. The dorsum of the head is shiny black, the upper and lower labial scales are white with black markings on the anterior edge of the scales. Body colour is either brownish-violet fading to yellowish ventrally (L. albertisii).
  • These pythons also regurgitate fur balls, also known as "castings". This behaviour is rarely seen, but 2–3 days after feeding, the results are seen. Owners of white-lipped pythons often think their snake is regurgitating its food.
  • The diet includes a range of small- to medium-sized birds and mammals. Neonates and juveniles often feed on lizards.

    Click HERE for a White Lipped Python care sheet.