Python facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Python |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Burmese python (Python bivittatus) | |
Scientific classification  |
|
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Serpentes |
| Family: | Pythonidae |
| Genus: | Python Daudin, 1803 |
| Type species | |
| Python molurus Linnaeus, 1758
|
|
Pythons are a family of large, non-venomous snakes found in Africa, Asia, and Australia. There are over 40 different species, ranging from the tiny Pygmy Python to the massive Reticulated Python, which is the longest snake in the world. They are "constrictors," meaning they use their powerful muscles to squeeze their prey instead of using venom to hunt.
Pythons belong to the family Pythonidae. Because they are cold-blooded, they love living in places where the sun keeps them warm and the environment provides plenty of places to hide.
Contents
Origin of the Name
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.
The name Python 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.
Giants of the Python World
Some pythons grow to be truly enormous. Here are a few of the most famous "heavyweights":
1. The Reticulated Python (Malayopython reticulatus)
This is the record-holder! It is officially the longest snake in the world. Some individuals have been measured at over 6 to 7 meters (about 20 to 23 feet) long. They are named "reticulated" because of the beautiful, net-like pattern on their scales. They live in the rainforests of Southeast Asia and are excellent swimmers.
2. The Burmese Python (Python bivittatus)
These snakes are famous for being very large and very heavy. They are native to Southeast Asia but have become famous (and a bit of a problem) in places like the Florida Everglades in the United States, where they were introduced by humans and have thrived in the wild. They are known for their calm temperament, which is why they are often kept as pets, but they require a lot of space and care.
3. The African Rock Python (Python sebae)
As the name suggests, this snake lives in Africa. It is one of the largest snakes on the continent and can be quite grumpy compared to other pythons. They live in a variety of habitats, from forests to savannas, and are very strong swimmers.
Small but Mighty
Not all pythons are giants. Some are quite small and make for very interesting study:
1. The Ball Python (Python regius)
This is perhaps the most popular pet snake in the world. They are native to West and Central Africa. They are called "ball" pythons because when they feel scared or threatened, they curl their bodies into a tight ball, tucking their head safely in the middle. They are generally very shy and gentle.
2. The Children’s Python (Antaresia childreni)
Don't let the name fool you—these snakes aren't named because they are for children! They were named after a famous scientist named John George Children. These are some of the smallest pythons in the world, usually growing to only about 1 meter (3 feet) long. They are native to Australia and are very popular among reptile enthusiasts because of their manageable size.
3. The Pygmy Python (Antaresia perthensis)
This is the smallest python species on the planet. They are tiny, often reaching only about 50 centimeters (20 inches) in length. They live in the rocky areas of Western Australia and are very secretive, spending most of their time hiding in rock crevices.
Python Superpowers
Pythons have some amazing biological "superpowers" that help them survive in the wild:
- Heat-Sensing Pits: Many pythons have special pits along their lips called "labial pits." These pits are incredibly sensitive to heat. They allow the snake to "see" the body heat of warm-blooded animals, even in total darkness. It is like having built-in night-vision goggles!
- Flexible Jaws: A python’s jaw is not fused together like a human's. Instead, the bones are connected by stretchy ligaments. This allows the snake to open its mouth incredibly wide to swallow large meals.
- Strong Muscles: A python’s body is essentially one long, powerful muscle. This allows them to climb trees, swim through rivers, and squeeze with enough force to hold onto large prey.
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.
Fun Facts About Pythons
- A python’s scales are made of keratin—the same stuff that makes up your fingernails and hair.
- As a python grows, it gets too big for its skin. It will shed its old skin in one long piece, revealing a new, shiny layer underneath. This is called "ecdysis."
- You might see a python flicking its tongue in and out. It isn't trying to be scary; it is actually "tasting" the air to pick up scents and find out what is happening in its environment.
- Pythons don't have eyelids. Instead, they have a clear, protective scale over their eyes called a "brille." This is why they always look like they are staring at you.
- Some pythons can live for a very long time. In captivity, with good care, some have been known to live for over 30 years.
