Florida's Snakes
African Python
(Python sebae)NONNATIVE, INVASIVE
Blotched
African Python (click on images to view larger)
Photos by Lori Oberhofer (NPS) and Bob Reed (USGS); illustration by USGS. These photos may not be used without the express written permission of the photographer.
Size:
Up to 12 ft. or more
Identification:
Body is grayish tan to brown. Back and sides are marked with irregular brown blotches with dark outlines; blotches on the back usually DO touch, and blotches on the sides may be somewhat C-shaped. Head is marked with an arrowhead-shaped mark with a light line down the center, and dark and light wedges under the eyes. Belly is marked with splotches. Scales are smooth and shiny. This snake lays eggs.
Distribution:
To view a current map of all African Python sightings in Florida, click the map. NOTE: On 22 Dec 2010, 30 FWC agents searched the Bird Drive Basin and found no African Pythons present.
EDDMapS sightings of African Pythons in Florida - 25 Aug 2010.
African Python Species Profiles & Additional Information:
- Florida Invader: African Python (species profile)
- African Rock Python photos, etc. - Everglades CISMA
- African Rock Python - FLMNH
- African Rock Python - ARKive (with photos and videos)
- African Rock Python VIDEO (embedded from YouTube)
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