A Risk Assessment for the Black-headed python, Aspidites meloncephalus has been conducted by the Department.
As a key component of risk assessment for import into Tasmania, conventional climate modelling was applied to compare the state’s environment with the species’ natural range CLIMATCH revealed “low” potential for suitable habitat across the entire state.
The risk assessment determined the Black-headed python as moderately dangerous to humans, having a low establishment risk, with a low consequence of establishment, and a moderate Quantitative and Qualitative consequence. It was therefore proposed the species be assigned to a moderate threat category.
Following the initial risk assessment, the Department considers permitting the importation of animals assessed as ‘moderate risk’ into the State as long as appropriate mitigation measures, enforced through a wildlife exhibition licence or permit for businesses that display reptiles for educational purposes, can be identified and applied.
Mitigation options to reduce the risk associated with importing Black-headed python could include:
- Limit importation to registered wildlife parks, zoos or businesses that display reptiles for educational purposes, to ensure that holding facilities meet the stringent keeping standards that apply to all such institutions in Tasmania;
- Require any wildlife park, zoo or business to submit a Black-headed python Species Management Plan (including enclosure details) prior to import; and
- Require wildlife exhibition facility licence holders and businesses that display reptiles for eduacational purposes to clearly demonstrate that they have proficient keepers for the species.
Black-headed Python Risk Assessment (509Kb)