Florida's Snakes
Burmese Python
(Python molurus)NONNATIVE, INVASIVE
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Blotched
Burmese Python
Photos by Skip Snow (NPS), 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:
Ranges from 2 ft. (hatchling) up to 18 ft. (max. ~20 ft.)
Identification:
Large, heavy body is yellowish tan to light brown. Back and sides are marked with darker reddish brown blotches bordered with black; blotches on the back usually do not touch. Head is marked with a dark brown "V" shaped blotch with a tan line down the center. Whitish tan wedges bordered by dark wedges run from each eye to the corner of the jaw. Belly is unmarked down the center. Scales are smooth and shiny. This snake lays eggs.
Habitats:
Currently found mainly in southern Florida, this invasive snake is usually found in or near freshwater aquatic habitats such as marshes, swamps, and canals. It has been found in greatest numbers in the Everglades, but it may be able to adapt to a wide variety of forested and open habitats and could spread throughout Florida and other parts of the southeastern U.S. This species is not native to Florida - it was introduced as a result of accidental escapes and intentional releases of pet snakes. To view a current map of all Burmese Python sightings in Florida, click on the map below.
Diet:
Alligators, birds, mice, rats, squirrels, rabbits, cats, bobcats, opossums, raccoons, deer
Map by Michele Wood (UF) - may be used freely for education. Click on the map to view a current map of all sightings reported in Florida.
Burmese Python Species Profiles & Additional Information:
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