Python sebae

(Gmelin, 1789)

Vernacular names
English : African rock python
French : Python de Séba

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Pythonidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The largest African snake species, growing up to 7.6 meters in length, usually smaller. Large triangular head. Very dark body coloration, blackish brown witn light-edged broad brown blotches on back and most of flanks giving mottled aspect.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in Africa, from south of Sahara in Senegal to South Sudan, south to Angola, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. Lives in savannas, forests, semi-deserts, swamp edges, often near water.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : NEAR THREATENED
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species has been experiencing very significant declines in its West African populations because of unustainable harvesting for bushmeat and leather. More work is to be done to better assess the population trends.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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