Python facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Python |
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| Burmese python (Python bivittatus) | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Serpentes |
| Family: | Pythonidae |
| Genus: | Python Daudin, 1803 |
| Type species | |
| Python molurus Linnaeus, 1758
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Pythons are a group of large, non-venomous snakes. They are known for wrapping around their prey and squeezing it tightly. This is why they are called "constricting" snakes. Pythons live in warm, tropical parts of the world. You can find them in Africa and Asia.
The name Python was first used by François Marie Daudin in 1803. He used it for snakes that were not venomous and had spotted skin. Today, scientists recognize between seven and 13 different types of python species.
Contents
Where the Name 'Python' Comes From
The name Python comes from old words. It comes from the Latin word 'pȳthon'. It also comes from the Greek word 'πύθων'. Both of these words refer to a famous story. In this story, the god Apollo defeats a giant serpent. This serpent was called Python.
Where Pythons Live
Pythons live in many warm places around the world.
Pythons in Africa
In Africa, pythons live in the tropical areas south of the Sahara desert. However, you will not find them in the very southern tip of Africa. They also do not live on the island of Madagascar.
Pythons in Asia
In Asia, pythons are found in many countries. These include Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and Pakistan. They also live in Sri Lanka and the Nicobar Islands. You can find them further east in Myanmar and Indochina. They also live in southern China, Hong Kong, and Hainan. Pythons are also found in parts of Indonesia and the Philippines.
Pythons as Invasive Species
Sometimes, animals can move to new places. If they cause problems there, they are called "invasive species." Some people think that two types of pythons, the Burmese python (P. bivittatus) and the African rock python (P. sebae), could become invasive. This is especially true in South Florida in the United States.
In the Everglades National Park, many pythons have been found. Park officials believe thousands of these snakes might live there. They have been breeding in the park for many years. Efforts are made to control their numbers. However, some studies suggest these pythons might not survive cold winters. This means they might not spread much further north than Florida.
How Pythons Are Used
Python skin is very strong and beautiful. Because of this, it is used to make many things.
Python Skin Products
- Clothing: Python skin is used for vests, belts, boots, and shoes.
- Fashion Accessories: It is also used for handbags and other accessories.
- Musical Instruments: The skin can be stretched over musical instruments. It is used for the soundboard of instruments like the erhu and sanxian.
There is a high demand for snake skin in the fashion world. Countries in Africa and Southern Asia are involved in selling python skin. This can be done legally or illegally.
Pythons as Pets
Many types of pythons are popular pets. These include the Ball python (P. regius) and the Burmese python (P. bivittatus). People like them because they are often easy to care for. They also tend to be calm and have bright, beautiful colors. Some very rare types of pythons can even sell for thousands of dollars!
Pet pythons come from different places. Some are caught in the wild. Others are born from female snakes that were caught in the wild. The safest pets are those born from parents that were also born in captivity. With the right safety steps, owning a pet python can be quite safe.
