Carpet Python (Coastal Cross)

Morelia spilota mcdowelli × Morelia spilota
Common Names: Carpet Python, Coastal Carpet Python Cross

Species Overview

• Size: Coastal Carpet Pythons are among the largest of the carpet complex, often 7–10 feet (2.1–3.0 m), with some exceeding 12 feet. When crossed with smaller subspecies (such as Jungle or Irian Jaya), adult size is typically 6–9 feet (1.8–2.7 m), depending on parentage.

• Appearance:

  • Coastal carpets normally display tan to brown base colours with bold dark banding or blotches.

  • Crosses can express a wide range of traits depending on the pairing—sometimes showing reduced or broken banding, brighter contrasts, or darker overall tones.

  • Cross animals are not considered “pure” and may blend visual traits of multiple carpet python lineages.

• Distribution: A captive-produced cross involving Morelia spilota mcdowelli (Coastal) and one or more other carpet subspecies, such as Jungle (M. s. cheynei) or Irian Jaya (M. s. harrisoni).

• Habitat (wild counterparts):

  • Coastal carpets are native to eastern Australia, thriving in forests, wetlands, and even urban edges.

  • Crosses reflect no natural distribution but instead represent selective breeding in captivity.

• Behaviour: Like other carpet pythons, they are semi-arboreal constrictors, feeding on mammals, birds, and reptiles, and making use of both ground and climbing space.

Captive Care

• Enclosure: Adults require large enclosures, ideally 5–6 ft long, with climbing space, perches, and secure hides.

• Temperature & Humidity:

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

  • Ambient gradient between 75–80°F (24–27°C).

  • Humidity around 50–70%, slightly raised during shedding.

• Diet: Juveniles thrive on hopper mice every 5–7 days. Adults should be offered medium to large rats every 10–14 days. They are typically strong, consistent feeders.

• Behaviour in Captivity: Captive-bred Coastal crosses are generally hardy and adaptable, with some juvenile defensiveness that usually settles as they mature.

• Special Considerations: These snakes benefit from semi-arboreal, naturalistic setups, with climbing enrichment and varied perch heights.

Genetics Note

• Cross-Breeding: This snake is a hybrid between Coastal Carpet Pythons and another subspecies, blending traits from both.

• Breeding Considerations: Crosses should always be clearly documented, as they are not considered pure localities. They are valued for their unique appearances and genetic diversity, but may be less desirable to keepers focused on locality purity.

The Carpet Python (Coastal Cross) combines the size and bold pattern of the Coastal carpet with traits from another subspecies, producing a snake that is both visually distinct and hardy in captivity.