Reticulated Python

The reticulated python is a python species native to South and Southeast Asia. It is the world's longest snake, and the third heaviest after the green anaconda and Burmese python. It is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List because of its wide distribution. Reticulated pythons are typically found on the ground, but they may also enjoy swimming in nearby bodies of water. They are typically regarded as being an aggressive species of snake because it is difficult to regularly handle them. The lifespan of the reticulated python is likely between 15 and 22 years. The oldest known wild individual was 23 years old ,while the oldest known captive individual was 32. The color pattern of these snakes is a complex geometric pattern that incorporates different colors. The back typically has a series of irregular diamond shapes flanked by smaller markings with light centers. In this species' wide geographic range, many variations of size, color, and markings commonly occur which form excellent camouflage and allow these snakes to fit into their surroundings. The most common colors include olive green, black, white, tan, yellow, gold, and brown. Reticulated pythons are found in South and Southeast Asia from the Nicobar Islands, India, Bangladesh, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore, east through Indonesia and the Indo-Australian Archipelago (Sumatra, the Mentawai Islands, the Natuna Islands, Borneo, Sulawesi, Java, Lombok, Sumbawa, Sumba, Flores, Timor, Maluku, Tanimbar Islands) and the Philippines (Basilan, Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Luzon, Mindanao, Mindoro, Negros, Palawan, Panay, Polillo, Samar, Tawi-Tawi). They live in tropical rainforests, woodlands, and nearby grasslands. They are also associated with rivers and are found in areas with nearby streams and lakes. Reticulated pythons are excellent swimmers and have even been reported far out at sea and have consequently colonized many small islands within their range. In some parts of their range, these pythons can also be found in cultivated and urban areas.

Scientific name: Malayopython reticulatus

Mass: 2.2 – 170 lbs

Lifespan: between 15 and 22 years 

Domain: Eukaryota

Family: Pythonidae

Kingdom: Animalia

Order: Squamata