Python

A Pewter Ball Python

Python is a genus of snake that is often confused with the boa, with which they share several physical traits; Several snake species have been classified under both groups at one time or another. Although both hunt by constricting prey, boas give live birth and lack heat-sensing pits.

The python’s natural habitat is in Sub-Saharan Africa and much of Central and Southeast Asia, although the snakes have also become an invasive species in North America. Pythons are non-venomous, killing their prey by constricting around them. Attacks on people are extremely rare, and despite numerous myths, it’s very rare for pythons to actually eat a human. The snakes can swallow prey equal to its body weight and up to 25% of its length.

Today, there are seven recognized species of python:

P. regius – Ball or Royal

This Sub-Saharan snake grows to only 3 to 4 feet (1 to 1.3 meters) in length. This small size makes them popular pets. The name “ball” comes from their habit of curling up into a ball when stressed, while “royal” stems from a legend that one was kept by Cleopatra.

P. anchietae – Angolan

Closely related to the Ball python, this snake is found in southern Angola and northern Namibia. It can reach a length of up to 6 feet (2 meters.)

P. curtus – Short-tailed

Found throughout Southeast Asia, these snakes are hunted for their red and tan skins which are used in leather production.

P. molurus – Indian or Black-tailed

Although an excellent swimmer, this snake is lethargic, and will stay still even while being attacked. Desired for its skin and meat, populations have been pushed down to a point that they are protected in some areas.

The bivittatus subspecies, known as the Burmese Python, has become an invasive species in Florida. Ideally suited to life in the state’s wetlands, these animals have been able to breed in the wild. The population is estimated to be over 30,000 state-wide, with at least 5,000 living inside the Everglades National Park. Although they pose little threat to humans, this snake is an indiscriminate eater that poses a serious threat to endangered wildlife. Unaware that the species can reach lengths between 14 and 20 feet (4.5 to 7 meters,) owners would release these reptiles into the while once they were too large to care for.

P. reticulatus – Reticulated

Found throughout Southeast Asia and the surrounding islands, it’s the longest known snake with specimens reaching a length of 20 to 30 feet (7 to 10 meters.)

P. sebae – African Rock

With subspecies found across West and Central Africa, these snakes can easily top 20 feet (7 meters) in length. They have no problem going after large prey, and have been known to eat antelope.

P. timoriensis – Timor

Despite the name, this small snake has been found throughout much Southeast Asia, except the island of Timor. Females will coil around their eggs, keeping the brood warm and protected until they hatch.