African rock python

Distribution

Habitats

The following habitats are found across the African rock python distribution range. Find out more about these environments, what it takes to live there and what else inhabits them.

• Swamp
• Temperate grassland
• Tropical coniferous forest
• Tropical grassland

Behaviours

Discover what these behaviours are and how different plants and animals use them.

• Camouflage
• Carnivorous
• Tactile sense
• Maternal care
• Moulting
• Egg layer
• Active at birth
• Predator
• Chemical communication
• Sexual dimorphism
• Visual communication

About

Python sebae, commonly known as the African rock python, is a large, nonvenomous snake of Sub-Saharan Africa. The African rock python is one of seven species in the genus Python. It has two subspecies: one found in Central and Western Africa, the other in Southern Africa.

Africa's largest snake, specimens may approach or exceed 6 m (20 ft). The southern subspecies is generally smaller than its northern relative. The snake is found in a variety of habitats, from forests to near deserts, although usually near sources of water. The African rock python kills its prey by constriction and often eats animals up to the size of antelope, occasionally even crocodiles. The snake reproduces by egg-laying. Unlike most snakes, the female will protect her nest and sometimes even her hatchlings.

The snake is widely feared even though it only very rarely kills humans. Although the snake is not endangered, it does face threats from habitat reduction and hunting.

Read more at Wikipedia