Boelen's python (Simalia boeleni) is a highly sought-after species among reptile enthusiasts due to its striking appearance and rarity in captivity. Native to the mountainous regions of New Guinea, these pythons inhabit elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,400 meters, making them unique among pythons, which typically prefer lower altitudes. Their distinctive black and white coloration, with iridescent scales that shimmer in various hues under light, sets them apart. This iridescence is due to microscopic ridges on their scales that reflect light, creating a stunning visual effect. Boelen's pythons are also known for their large size, reaching lengths of up to 10 feet, with a robust and muscular build.

In the wild, Boelen's pythons are elusive and primarily nocturnal, which adds to their mystique. They are adept climbers, often found in trees and bushes, but they are also known to traverse the forest floor in search of prey. Their diet mainly consists of small mammals and birds, which they hunt using their keen sense of smell and heat-sensing pits. Despite their formidable size and predatory nature, Boelen's pythons are generally known to have a calm temperament, which, coupled with their beauty, makes them highly desirable in the reptile trade. However, due to their specific habitat requirements and the challenges in replicating these conditions in captivity, they are considered an advanced species to care for, often necessitating a detailed understanding of their environmental needs and behaviors.