The reticulated python, python reticulatus, is the longest snake species in the world. They measure 16 to 26 feet (4.5 to 8 meters) long on average and can weigh up to 440 pounds. Their skin’s color pattern is a complex geometric pattern which includes brown, tan, golden yellow and black. The back of this animal usually has a series of irregular diamond shapes that are flanked by smaller markings with light centers. The size, color and markings of these snakes can vary greatly depending on where they are located as they have a large range.
The reticulated python can be found throughout much of Southeast Asia. They will inhabit grasslands, rain forests and woodlands. Trees pose no problem as these creatures are excellent climbers, especially as juveniles. They are excellent swimmers and will pick an environment that is close to a large body of water. These reptiles are primarily nocturnal, resting during the day and emerging at night to hunt. They are also solitary, meaning that they do their traveling and hunting alone.
The diet of a reticulated python consists of nesting birds, water fowl, dogs, large deer, pigs and (on rare occasions) humans. They usually prefer to ambush their prey, although records have shown that they will actively forage for food from time to time. Their skin pattern allows them to both hide from predators (the few that they have) and sneak up on their prey. Once they are close enough to a potential meal, they will grab the creature with their mouth, using the 100 teeth located near the back to grip while they move in for the kill. These snakes will then coil their bodies around the prey and squeeze them until they suffocate to death. The reticulated python will then proceed to swallow the victim whole and begin digesting it within its body.
Breeding season for the reticulated python often takes place from September to March. Females will lay a clutch of anywhere from 20 to 100 eggs. They will then coil around the eggs in order to make sure they do not get too hot or cold. The eggs require a temperature of around 89 degrees Fahrenheit (31.66 degrees Celsius). Incubation takes anywhere from 82 to 90 days, at which time the hatchlings will begin emerging. They are able to penetrate the white, leathery shell of the egg with the help of a special ‘egg tooth’ which they loose soon after birth. Once the young have emerged from their eggs, they become independent and must survive on their own. If the little ones can survive long enough, then they can live to be up to 20 years old.
The reticulated python is not technically an endangered species, although it does have a number of threats to its population. Loss of habitat is of course a great concern as well as the fact that these snakes are often killed for their skin. Hopefully, the reticulated python can overcome its obstacles and avoid having to face the possibility of extinction. After all, such a large and unique snake species deserves to live and prosper far into the future.
