Malayopython timoriensis
Scientific Name: Malayopython timoriensis
Common Names: Timor Python, Lesser Sundas Python
Taxonomy
Malayopython timoriensis belongs to the family Pythonidae and is a notable member of the genus Malayopython. Initially classified within the genus Python and later moved to the genus Broghammerus (Hoser 2004), this classification was deemed invalid due to insufficient supporting data and analysis (Kaiser et al. 2011). Consequently, Reynolds et al. (2014) established the new genus Malayopython, a reclassification that has been endorsed by subsequent studies (Barker and Barker 2015, Murray-Dickson et al. 2017, Barker et al. 2018). The genus Malayopython now includes two species: M. reticulatus and M. timoriensis.
Description
Malayopython timoriensis is a medium-sized snake endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands, also known as the Nusa Tenggara Islands. They reach an average length of 1.5-2 m (4’11″-6’7″), but in rare cases, individuals can grow up to 3 m (9’10″). These pythons demonstrate a slender and agile physique, with narrow and elongated heads adorned with dark spots and stripes that enhance their camouflage. Their coloration varies from browns to olive green and yellows, with lower head scales typically very bright yellow.
Their behavior is reminiscent of colubrids, characterized by quick and nervous movements. They prefer to escape rather than strike. In all my years of keeping this species, I have never been bitten. When handled, they are known to defecate, but in my experience, this issue is primarily seen in wild-caught specimens. Captive-bred individuals raised and handled from a young age tend to be much calmer and do not exhibit this behavior.
Unfortunately, captive-bred individuals are very hard to come by nowadays. In the mid-2000s, they were bred consistently in Europe, but this has become increasingly rare. They are a protected species, meaning they can’t be exported as wild-caught. Indonesia has exported them as farm-bred animals, but even these are now almost impossible to find, making Malayopython timoriensis one of the extremely rare python species in captivity.
In the wild, Malayopython timoriensis is an opportunistic feeder with a diet that includes rodents, bats, birds and their eggs, lizards, and occasionally other small snakes.
Distribution
The name “Timor Python” might seem misleading since Malayopython timoriensis has not been reported from Timor Island itself. This misnomer could have arisen from historical naming conventions, early taxonomic classifications, or assumptions based on the geographical proximity of Timor Island to the species’ known range. Early researchers may have believed the species was found on Timor Island, or the name may have been derived from the general region, including the Lesser Sunda Islands (Nusa Tenggara Islands) where the species is actually found, such as on Flores, Lembata, Solor, Pantar, and Adonara. Revisions in taxonomic knowledge and a better understanding of the species’ distribution have clarified that it does not inhabit Timor Island, but the common name has persisted.
An undescribed species has been observed on Rinca Island, which is likely closely related to Malayopython timoriensis but has yet to be formally documented (Barker et al. 2018).
Malayopython timoriensis inhabits a range of environments from open country, grasslands, savannahs, and rolling hills with open woodlands to mangroves and monsoon forests, at elevations up to 500 m (1,640 feet). This ecological versatility enables them to thrive in both terrestrial and arboreal environments within their range.
Captive Care
Malayopython timoriensis is generally very easy to keep in captivity, with the caveat that wild-caught individuals can be very shy and nervous.
Cage Size
I would suggest a minimum cage size of 150x60x60 cm (5’x2’x2’) for adult individuals. They are great climbers, so providing a taller enclosure would benefit them.
Substrate
I have used cypress mulch, coconut soil, and Allspan Super as substrates. They do well on any of these.
Humidity
I keep my animals at around 60% humidity and never mist. They always shed in one perfect piece.
Heating
I provide them with a heat spot around 29°C (84.2°F) and keep the cooler end at 26°C (78.8°F).
Cycle
I maintain a 10-hour light and heat cycle year-round, allowing for seasonal temperature fluctuations when the heat is off in the evening and night.
I give them a cooling period from November to March, during which they are without food, and the nighttime temperatures can drop to 19°C (66.2°F) on the coldest nights.
Feeding
Malayopython timoriensis is a robust feeder with a high metabolism. Depending on their size, I feed them mice or rats.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
CITES: Appendix II
Status: Malayopython timoriensis is classified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, indicating a high risk of extinction in the wild. The primary threats to this species include habitat loss from deforestation and land-use changes. While the species is protected under Indonesian law, prohibiting its export as wild-caught, illegal activities and insufficient enforcement still pose risks. Additionally, the species’ limited distribution make it particularly susceptible to environmental changes and human encroachment.
Gallery
Written by Paul Sørensen DKPythons