Reticulated python

The Zoo has one female reticualted python named Bessie.  Her estimated birthdate is July 1, 1994 and she arrived at the Zoo on June 29, 1999.

Viewing Hints

Look near the large plant or in the pool.

Where to find me in the Zoo

Reptile and Amphibian House

Fun Facts

• Reticulated pythons have been seen swimming in the ocean, which is probably how they originally got to the islands in the Pacific Ocean where some now live.
• Adults can grow to a length of more than 28.5 feet, but average between 10-12 feet.
• Reticulated pythons are slow moving at an average of 1 mile per hour.

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This beautiful snake has a pattern of irregular diamond shapes running along its back and smaller markings with a light center on its sides. The term “reticulated” refers to the skin pattern of the snake.

Longevity

14 years in captivity.

Behavior

The reticulated python employs a "lie and wait" hunting strategy. They can be found in rainforests, woodlands, grasslands as well as near human populations searching for prey. They are also excellent swimmers and will often be found in rivers, streams and lakes. They have also be known to traverse the open ocean.

Reproduction

Female pythons can lay between 10-100 eggs per clutch.The mother python will coil around the eggs and create muscular vibrations to keep the eggs warm.

Size

10-20 feet

Weight

over 200lbs

Diet

Reticulated python’s are carnivorous. They are ambush feeders and will consume any prey they are able to seize and wrap in their coils. In the wild, they will consume mammals or birds up to approximately ¼ of their own body length. At the Zoo, the snakes are offered rabbits appropriate to the size of the snake. During the late spring to late fall the snake will eat weekly – in the winter the snake may become inactive and feed less frequently.

Geographic Range

Their range extends from Myanmar and India, across Southeast Asia and on many of the islands of the Philippines and Indonesia.