One of the many varieties of snakes available here at Living Science is the Ball Python.

Many Python species are popular to keep as pets due to their ease of care, docile temperament, and vibrant colors.

As with all of our snakes, they are non-venomous. That means that IF they are provoked, and bite, they do NOT have poisonous venom that can kill you.

Here are a few interesting facts about Ball Pythons.

• The name Python was proposed by Francois Marie Daudin in 1803 for non-venomous snakes with a flecked skin and a long split tongue.

• In Africa, pythons are native to the tropics south of the Sahara, but not in the extreme south-western tip of southern Africa or in Madagascar.

• Python skin is used to make clothing, such as vests, belts, boots, and shoes, or fashion accessories such as handbags.

• These slinky critters are available for a 2-week period through the Living Science Material Center CO-OP page to study and borrow as classroom visitor.