Python Facts
Python Facts
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Pythons are one of the largest snakes. Unlike many other snake species, pythons don’t produce venom - they are non-venomous snakes. Pythons live in the tropical areas of Africa and Asia. They can be found in rainforests, savannas and deserts. A lot of people keep them as pets. Pythons don’t attack humans, unless they are provoked or stressed.
| Interesting Python Facts: |
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| Pythons are constrictors. They kill their prey by squeezing them until they stop breathing. |
| After they kill an animal, they will swallow it in one piece. |
| Everything except fur and feathers will be digested. Undigested material can be found in the python’s poop. |
| Size of the prey determines the time needed for digestion. Bigger prey can keep the snake satiated for weeks or months. Pythons eat 4-5 times per year. |
| They eat wild animals such as monkeys, antelopes, caimans… |
| Pythons attack their prey from the ambush. They are well camouflaged and hidden usually in the trees. |
| Although they are mainly located on the ground or in the trees, pythons are excellent swimmers. |
| Colors of the python’s skin are usually similar to the colors of its habitat. Snakes blend easily with their environment. |
| People kill pythons because of their beautiful skin that is used in fashion industry. |
| Pythons have heat-sensing organs which help them locate the prey. |
| Female lays 12-36 eggs. She protects eggs and keeps them warm by coiling her body around them. When babies hatch, mother leaves the nest. Young snakes need to look after themselves from the first day. |
| Pythons are cold-blooded animals, but they can increase their body temperature through sunbathing. |
| One of the longest known python species is Reticulated Python which can reach 30 feet in length. Most snakes weigh between 260-300 pounds. |
| Pythons can move 1 mile per hour on the flat ground. |
| In captivity, pythons may live up to 40 years. |