The Southern African python (or Python natalensis) is Africa's second largest snake, which is slightly smaller than the Central Africa rock python. With a body measuring between 3 and 5 m in length, it is a constrictor snake that inhabits the rocky and bushy areas of South Africa. Taxonomy: class = reptilia; order = squamata; suborder = serpentes; family = Pythonidae; genus = Python; species = P. natalensis.
Description
A fully-grown Southern African python can measure up to 5 m (16 feet) in length. It has a stout body, with very small and smooth scales arranged in 78-95 rows at mid-body. The body is blotched with dark grey irregular patterns, with yellowish and light grey bands. The head is triangular and is covered with small sensitive pits on each side; there is a large spearhead mark on the crown.
The Python natalensis feeds on small and medium-size mammals, such as rodents and small antelopes. The female lays up to 100 eggs in hollow trees or abandoned ant-eater holes. Once the eggs are laid, it coils around them, shaking its body to generate heat. Although it lacks the typical fangs of venomous snakes, pythons bite readily as large individuals should be treated with caution.
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| Head of Python natalensis is triangular, with a spearhead-like mark on top. |
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| Southern-African python - female and the eggs. |
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