Records of the inland Carpet Python, Morelia spilota metcalfei (Serpentes: Pythonidae), from the South-western Slopes of New South Wales

Abstract

Location records of the Inland Carpet Python Morelia spilota metcalfei were collated from the southwestern slopes of New South Wales from scientific literature, published reports, landholder questionnaires, public information sessions, informal conversations andfield observations. Fifty-three records, encompassing a minimum of 95 observations were obtained. Twenty-nine records (58%) and 57 observations (69%) originated from granite outcrops. High priority conservation areas for this species in the SWS include; inselbergs such as Goombargana Hill, Gerogery Range and Nest Hill, the granite belt between Kyeamba and Wagga Wagga, large vegetated ranges such as Yambla Range and the Rock Nature Reserve and the riverine environment along the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers. Future conservation of M. s. metcalfei habitat in the SWS will require appropriate management of granite land forms with particular focus on strategic grazing, pest animal programs and fire control. Show more