Indian Python
Python molurus
Description 3
INTRODUCTION
- Non-Venomous
- Largest snake species found in peninsular India.
- Two subspecies of which Python molurus molurus is found in the peninsula.
- Have Heat-Sensing Pits similar in function to those of Pit Vipers.
IDENTIFICATION
- Large, thick body with smooth scales, yellowish color pattern with dark brown blotches all over.
- Triangular head with heat sensitive pits on snout & vertical pupils.
- Two streaks passing from eyes, arrow shaped pattern on posterior of head.
- Hill forest varieties of WG and NE India darker than those from EG and Deccan Plateau.
- Look like Burmese pythons but have NO subocular scale above 6th & 7th supralabials.
- Grow to 8-12 feet on average.
DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT
- Widespread throughout India.
- Inhabits grasslands, marshes, forests, scrub jungles, rocky terrain.
- Highly preferential for staying near water bodies.
- Hides in mammal burrows, caves, hollow trees and dense vegetation.
DIET AND BEHAVIOR
- Feeds on mammals, large rodents, lizards and birds.
- On finding prey, they lunge out, grab and constrict prey by coiling around it.
- Usually can't move much after a heavy meal and can fast for months.
- Nocturnal, but can be seen at day time basking or foraging for prey.
- Primarily terrestrial but good climbers and swimmers too.
- Usually non-offensive and tries to escape threats. Slow movers but capable of quick bursts.
- If harassed, coils to strike and hisses loudly. Strike if too close to head. Saliva has anti-coagulant and causes bleeding.
Sources and Credits
- (c) John Sullivan, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by John Sullivan
- (c) Vinay Gogula, all rights reserved, uploaded by Vinay Gogula
- (c) Vinay Gogula, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)
More Info
iNat Map
| Toxicity | Non-Venomous |
|---|---|
| Found | Common |
