Carpet Python (Axanthic Irian Jaya/Coastal)

Morelia spilota harrisoni × Morelia spilota mcdowelli
Common Names: Carpet Python, Axanthic Carpet Python, Irian Jaya × Coastal Cross

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Species Overview

• Size:

  • Irian Jaya carpets average 5–7 feet (1.5–2.1 m).

  • Coastal carpets are among the largest in the complex, averaging 7–10 feet (2.1–3.0 m), with exceptional individuals exceeding 12 feet.

  • Crosses typically mature in the 6–9 foot (1.8–2.7 m) range, with build and growth rate depending on parental influence.

• Appearance:

  • Axanthic (recessive – visual): Removes yellow pigment, creating a black, grey, and silver colour scheme instead of typical earthy tones.

  • This cross blends the more chaotic and fine patterning of Irian Jaya with the bolder banding and larger frame of Coastal carpets.

  • The result is a snake with a sleek, monochrome look and strong genetic diversity.

• Distribution: Represents a captive-bred cross between Irian Jaya (New Guinea) and Coastal (eastern Australia) carpet pythons.

• Habitat (wild counterparts):

  • Irian Jaya carpets inhabit rainforest edges, savannahs, and agricultural zones in New Guinea.

  • Coastal carpets thrive in forests, wetlands, and even suburban areas along the east coast of Australia.

• Behaviour: Both lineages are semi-arboreal constrictors, adept at climbing and ambushing prey such as birds and small mammals.

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Captive Care

• Enclosure: Adults thrive in enclosures 5–6 ft long, with height for climbing. Provide sturdy branches, ledges, and multiple hides.

• Temperature & Humidity:

  • Basking spot at 88–90°F (31–32°C).

  • Ambient range 75–80°F (24–27°C).

  • Humidity between 50–70%, adjusted slightly depending on shedding cycles.

• Diet: Juveniles accept hopper mice readily, while adults do best on medium to large rats every 10–14 days.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Captive-bred Axanthics are generally hardy and good feeders. Juveniles may be defensive, but with steady husbandry, most mature into calm, predictable snakes.

• Special Considerations: Provide a semi-arboreal, naturalistic setup with perches and climbing opportunities, as both Irian Jaya and Coastal ancestry encourage climbing behaviour.

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Genetics Note

• Axanthic (Recessive – Visual): This morph removes yellow pigment, producing a black, grey, and silver snake.

• Cross-Breeding: This snake is a hybrid between Irian Jaya and Coastal carpets, combining traits of both subspecies.

• Breeding Considerations: While visually striking and genetically valuable for Axanthic projects, keepers should note that crosses blend distinct subspecies, and records should be kept carefully to avoid confusion with pure lines.

The Carpet Python (Axanthic Irian Jaya/Coastal) is a powerful, visually impressive cross, blending the sleek greyscale of Axanthic with the size and bold pattern of Coastal carpets, making it a striking addition to collections and breeding projects alike.