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Roar & Rove

Indian Python

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Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (VU) 

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Generally lives between 20-30 years.
  • In Captivity: Can live up to 30 years or more with proper care. 
Body size
  • Length: Typically ranges from 3-6 meters (10-20 feet).
  • Weight: Can weigh between 52-90 kg (115-200 lbs), making it one of the largest snakes in the region.
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Found in South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
  • Habitat: Prefers a variety of environments, including subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, grasslands, swamps, marshes, and river valleys. It is also found in mangrove forests and occasionally in agricultural areas.
Diet
  • Mammals: Such as deer, wild boar, rodents, and monkeys.
  • Birds: Including ground-dwelling birds and their eggs.
  • Occasionally: Reptiles and amphibians.
Indian Python (Python molurus)

The Indian Python is a formidable constrictor native to the diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka. Known for its impressive size and powerful presence, this python is a fascinating reptile in the wild.

Physical Characteristics: The Indian Python can grow to an astounding length, typically measuring between 3-6 meters (10-20 feet). Weighing from 52-90 kg (115-200 lbs), it has a robust and muscular build. Its coloration ranges from yellowish to brown with distinctive dark blotches and a pattern that provides excellent camouflage in its natural habitat.

Habitat: This python thrives in a variety of environments. It prefers subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, grasslands, swamps, marshes, and river valleys. Additionally, it can be found in mangrove forests and occasionally in agricultural areas. Sri Lanka’s rich and varied ecosystems offer an ideal habitat for this impressive snake.

Diet: The Indian Python has a diverse diet, which mainly includes:

  • Mammals: Such as deer, wild boar, and rodents.
  • Birds: Including ground-dwelling birds and their eggs.
  • Occasionally: Other reptiles and amphibians.

Its hunting technique involves ambushing prey, using its powerful constricting muscles to suffocate the animal before swallowing it whole. The python’s slow metabolism allows it to go for weeks or even months between meals.

Behavior: The Indian Python is generally solitary and primarily nocturnal. It is an excellent swimmer and often found near water sources. During the day, it seeks shelter in dense foliage, burrows, or hollow logs. Despite its size, this python is known for its stealth, moving silently through its environment. Non-venomous, it relies on constriction to subdue its prey.

Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Indian Python is classified as Vulnerable (VU), indicating a declining population. Threats include habitat loss, hunting for skin, and illegal wildlife trade. Conservation efforts are essential to protect this species and ensure its survival in the wild.

Lifespan: In the wild, the Indian Python typically lives between 20-30 years. In captivity, with proper care, it can live up to 30 years or more.