Not satisfied with the usual python constriction, womas specialise in crushing prey against the wall of their burrows.
Description: The Woma is grey-brown or golden-brown on its back with dark brown bands across its body and a yellow or white belly. Unlike other pythons, the Woma has a narrow, pointed head causing it to often be mistaken for a venomous snake.
Diet: Womas are carnivores and eat small mammals, ground birds and reptiles.
In the wild: The Woma is a nocturnal snake that shelters in hollow logs or burrows during the day. By using its head as a shovel, the Woma can also dig and expand burrows. Like other pythons, the Woma constricts its prey. The Woma will also crush prey against the walls of its burrow.
Threats: The biggest threat to the Woma is habitat destruction. This destroys breeding sites, protection and affects the amount of food available within its range. Feral animals like foxes and cats also prey on young Womas.
Perth Zoo’s Womas can be seen in the Reptile Encounter.
Did you Know?
There may be two separate types of Woma - the highly endangered ‘south-west’ Woma and a less threatened ‘desert’ Woma. Each has different environmental threats. Until a scientific confirmation is made of the two populations, all Womas will continue to be classified as 'Least Concern'.