Liasis mackloti, commonly known as Macklot's python[1] or the freckled python, is a species of python, a non-venomous snake in the family Pythonidae. The species is endemic to Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea, and coastal northern Australia. Three subspecies are recognized, including the nominate subspecies described here.
The specific name, mackloti, is in honor of naturalist and taxidermist Heinrich Christian Macklot.[2]
Attaining 7 ft (2.13 m) or more in total length (including tail), Macklot's python is large and if not treated properly can be a poor-tempered snake. Its coloration consists of a blackish-brown to green base color, with yellow to ochre sides, and a white belly that is patterned with small and dispersed yellow spots or black speckles, while the labial scales are pale in color.
Liasis mackloti is known to breed easily in captivity.[1] It is oviparous.
Liasis mackloti is found in Indonesia in the Lesser Sunda Islands of Savu, Roti, Samao, Timor and Wetar, in East Timor, Papua New Guinea, and coastal northern Australia. The type locality given is "les îles de Timor et de Samao ". Brongersma (1968) restricted the type locality to "Timor" by lectotype designation.[3]
| Subspecies | Taxon author | Common name | Geographic range |
|---|---|---|---|
| L. m. mackloti | A.M.C. Duméril & Bibron, 1844 | Macklot's python | Timor and Wetar, East Nusa Tenggara |
| L. m. dunni | Stull, 1932 | Dunn's python | |
| L. m. savuensis | Stull, 1932 | Savu python | Savu, East Nusa Tenggara |
Liasis mackloti is a snake that is known and sold in the live exotic animal trade, bringing it far beyond its native range, to as far as the United Kingdom, and North America, where it is sold and kept in captivity from pet stores, speciality shops, and conventions.