African Rock Python
Name
African Rock Python [Python sebae]
Class
Reptilia
Order
Squamata
Family
Boidae
Subspecies
2 races are recognized: African rock python [Python sebae sebae] and Southern African rock python [Python sebae natalensis]
Length F
5,0 m
Length M
4,25 m
Description
The African rock python is the largest snake in Africa. The body is covered in grey-green to brown scales, covered with black edged bars and blotches on top. The head has a unique spearhead mark on its crown with light and dark lines extending from the eye to tip.
Distribution
The African rock python can be found all over sub saharan Africa. In South Africa, the Southern African rock python can be found in the Lowveld, reaching KwaZulu Natal south coast, and extending along the Limpopo valley to Lobatse in Botswana and into the Northern Cape.
Breeding
The female African rock python lays up to 40-50 eggs, and can be found coiled around them for protection. The young hatch after 65-80 days.
Diet
The African rock python is carnivorous and feeds on various prey found in South Africa. It eats small antelope, monkeys, lizards, crocodiles and birds.
Field Notes
The African rock python does not have a venomous bite, but instead kills its prey through constriction.
