African Rock Python

scientific name

Python sebae

size/weight/height

Length: averages 18 - 20'; maximum of 28'
largest snake species in Africa; when it arrived in October of 1990, was 10'+ and 91 lbs.

adaptations/coloration

Color: brown blotches outlined by black on tan background

behavior

dependent on water " dormancy during dry season
Hunting: mainly by staying submerged near banks of stream
Activity: much more active/nervous than Burmese python
Kills: by constriction
Danger Factor: adults over 20' can be very dangerous

reproduction/lifespan

Lifespan: maximum 30 yrs.in captivity
Eggs: 100 maximum " female aggressively defends
Incubation: ~60 days " female incubates eggs
Hatchling: 18-24" in length

diet

Wild: hatchlings - small rodents, young mammals/birds " adults - small/young antelopes, warthogs, dogs, monkeys, water fowl, goats & crocodiles
Zoo: rabbits ~1/week

habitat/range

grasslands/ savanna; near water; occasionally forest edges " south of Sahara to central southern Africa

status

CITES AppII " agricultural & urban development has caused reduction of range