Burmese Python

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*This page is under renovation and all information may not be up-to-date or complete*

Description

The Burmese python is one of the largest snakes in the world. Their body is typically dark brown with beige spots and two distinct horizontal lines that run across each eye.

Range & Habitat

This snake species can be found in dry forests, mountains, and open grasslands in Southeast Asia from Pakistan to Indonesia.

At the Virginia Zoo, the Burmese python lives behind the scenes as an Animal Ambassador.

Behavior

Burmese pythons are a non-venomous constrictor, meaning they wrap their body around prey to suffocate it before swallowing the meal whole.

Diet

They are a carnivore, eat birds and mammals as large as pigs or deer.

Conservation

These snakes are listed as vulnerable to extinction due to poaching for their skin and capture for the illegal pet trade. They are also considered an invasive species in some areas due to humans releasing them into the wild in non-native habitats, such as Florida.

Fun Facts

• The Zoo’s Burmese python is albino.

Virginia Zoo Animals

Animal Ambassador: Cleopatra (female)