Like the other members of the genus Liasis, water pythons are often misrepresented as "mean" or snappy. Animals descending from Queensland locality stock are particularly known for their docility, though, like most pythons, they are a bit nervous as hatchlings. The parents of my yearlings, which are quite reluctant to bite even though they have not been handled often, are very placid. I'm told that, with any handling, animals from this line will become exceedingly calm and inquisitive, even "friendly." Ryan tells me that his young children handle his adults with no fear of defensive behavior.

I've heard that Indo and Northern Territory waters are more defensive than Queensland waters, but I have no personal experience to corroborate that claim. You won't find many (any?) NT waters available in the States, but there are Indo animals around (a mix of CBs and imports). I'm happy with the Queensland form.

I will add that water pythons seem to be very easy to "read." Their body language is quite exaggerated, so it's easy to predict and, thus, avoid a bite from even the most irascible hatchling. In my experience, they are wiry, strong, and quick compared to other pythons (like carpets, for example).

They're fun. You should get some!

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