African Rock Python
[Python sebae]
The African Rock Python can be up to 25 feet in length, but averages around 16 to 20 feet. Brown with olive and tan irregular blotching fading to white on the underside. Tan, V shape on the face with no fangs. Uses heat sensing organ in both jaws (infrared) to detect warm-blooded prey.
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Range
The African Rock Python's range is Africa south of the Sahara, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and Somalia and south to northern Namibia and east to the Indian Ocean
Habitat
The African Rock Python inhabits grassland, open forests, and savanna not far from water.
Conservation Status
Primary Threats
Gestation
Gestation lasts 2-3 months.
Litter
Up to 100 eggs
Behavior
The top and bottom jaws of the African Rock Python are attached to each other with stretchy ligaments so that they can swallow prey whole. They are highly dependent on sources of water, and estivate during the hottest and driest parts of the year, remaining deep in burrows made by other animals.
Reproduction
Reproduction of the African Rock Python occurs in the spring. Incubation is 2-3 months. Hatchling are between 18 – 24 inches in length and appear virtually identical to adults, except with more contrasting colors.
Wild Diet
Opportunistic, primarily small rodents, but goats, crocodiles and even people
Zoo Diet
Rodents