Simalia boeleni
Simalia boeleni is a species of python, a nonvenomous snake in the family Pythonidae. The species is endemic to the mountains of New Guinea. No subspecies are currently recognized. Etymology. The specific name, "boeleni", is in honor of K.W.J. Boelen, M.D., who collected the holotype specimen. Description. In "S. boeleni" adults, the upperside color pattern is dark bluish-black or purplish-black, and the anterior part of the underside is white to pale yellow. The white extends up the flanks as a series of streaks. The upper and lower lips are also patterned with pale or whitish labial  scales. The black portions are commonly iridescent with an oil-slick-like sheen. The body is stocky and the head large. Neonates are predominantly red upon emerging from the egg. Gradual black pigmentation presents itself as the neonate grows and sheds. Ontogenetic color charge begins as the juvenile snake approaches in length, usually around 2 years of age. Adults may be up to in total length (including tail). Conservation status. The unmistakable and famed Boelen's python receives the highest legal protection possible in Papua New Guinea. It is currently listed on CITES Appendix II. It is difficult to truly  assess the conservation status of these snakes, as they are incredibly secretive and difficult to find in the wild. Common names. Locally, "S. boeleni" is also known as the "blu moran" or "papa graun". Within Indonesia, it has several names depending on which language is used. The common Indonesian names of this snake are "sanca hitam", "sanca bulan", "piton hitam", and "ular buleni". Geographic range. "S. boeleni" is found in Indonesia (Western New Guinea in the Paniai Lakes region) and Papua New Guinea (the provinces of Eastern Highlands, Central and Morobe, and Goodenough Island). The type locality given is "Dimija  (3[°] 56' S, 136[°] 18' E), Wissel Lakes, Dutch New Guinea, about 1750 m (5700 feet) above sea-level" [Western New Guinea, Indonesia]. Habitat. "S. boeleni" inhabits forested montane regions at elevations of . It is generally encountered on the forest floor, but is also reckoned to be an able climber. Diet. The diet of "S. boeleni" consists of small mammals, ground-nesting birds, and lizards. Captivity. "S. boeleni" is considered to be highly desirable by private keepers due to its beauty, but is also exceptionally rare in collections. Although captive-born snakes are fairly hardy in captivity, wild -caught individuals are considerably more difficult to keep successfully. Captive breeding is exceedingly rare, and the conditions necessary are still unclear. Many specific strategies have been employed to attempt to get these rare snakes to breed.