Head to head
Water Python vs Olive Python
Water Python
VS Olive Python
The water python and olive python are two shining pythons in the genus Liasis that share the tropical north of Australia but live in different habitats.
| Water Python | Olive Python | |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific name | Liasis fuscus | Liasis olivaceus |
| Relationship | A close relative of the olive python, in the same genus | A close relative of the water python, in the same genus |
| Size | Around 3 metres long | Around 4 metres long, one of Australia's largest snakes |
| Colour | A dark brown to olive back with an iridescent sheen in sunlight, and a pale cream belly | An olive to brown back with a rainbow-like sheen in sunlight, and a paler belly |
| Habitat | Floodplains, billabongs, creeks, and grassland, often near water | Rocky ranges, woodland, and watercourses, sheltering in crevices, caves, and hollow logs near waterholes |
| Diet | Rats, birds, and reptiles, hunted mainly after dark | Mammals such as wallabies and rats, as well as birds and reptiles |
| Range | Tropical northern Australia and southern New Guinea | Tropical northern Australia |
| Conservation status | Least Concern, with a stable population | Least Concern |
Water Python vs Olive Python: common questions
Which python is bigger?
The olive python, which grows to around 4 metres, compared with about 3 metres for the water python.
Which one lives on floodplains?
The water python, which is often found near water, in floodplains, billabongs, and creeks.
Are they venomous?
No, both are non-venomous constrictors that kill their prey by wrapping coils around it and squeezing.