Burmese Python

A very common python in Thailand (with the exception of the far South), the Burmese Python probably also is one of the most well-known snakes, thanks to its popularity in the pet trade.

Although being a very large constrictor (with individuals able to grow over 5 metres in length) it is noted for a surprising docile nature. Unlike the Reticulated Python, which is infamous for its aggressive demeanor but like the Retic, the Burmese Python is known for going extraordinary long times without food, the reported record being 30(!) months.

It has been bred in captivity for a very long time (the majority of the first captive specimens even originated from Thailand), can become extremely tame when handled right and has been widely used as an ambassador for snakes altogether. Whenever people get the chance of having a big snake wrapped around their necks, may it be at shows or reptile expos, it almost always happen to be the Burmese. It is, however, still a very large and powerful snake and it has been known to kill people, most accidents occuring due to inproper and/or careless handling.

The Burmese Python is also famous - or rather infamous - for being an invasive species. When hurricane Andrew struck the regions of Florida and Louisana in 1992, it also destroyed a breeding facility that housed these pythons, which then escaped and were able to establish in the Everglades (some pythons may also have been released by unresponsible owners). As it is the case with many invasive species, the pythons are feared to having a great negative impact on the native wildlife and ecosystem and numerous ways to decimate the populations were initiated since then.

Their latin name "bivitattus" can be translated to "two stripes/bands" while their German name "Tigerpython" refers to their (very loose) resemblance with the pattern of a tiger.