Indian pythons are split into two recognized species which can be distinguished by their physical characteristics. Burmese pythons can grow to about 7.6 m (25 ft), and can weigh as much as 137 kg (300 lbs.). Indian pythons stay smaller, reaching a maximum of about 6.4 m (21 ft) in length, and weighing as much as 91 kg (200 lbs.). The hides of both species are marked with a rectangular type pattern that runs the full length of the animal. Burmese pythons are more dark colored, with shades of brown and dark cream rectangles that lay over a black background. This species is also characterized by an arrow-shaped marking present on the top of the head, which begins the pattern. Indian pythons have similar markings with light brown and tan rectangles placed over a cream background.

 

The Python is a macrostomatan (‘big-mouthed’) snake that uses its exceptionally flexible (kinetic) skull to create an enormous gape. This python has highly elastic ligaments and bones in the mouth and head so they are able to spread apart. Because of this design the python can swallow prey 4-5 times the diameter of its own head. Indian pythons are found in many habitats including rainforests, river valleys, woodlands, scrublands, grassy marshes, and semi rocky foothills. They are mostly seen in habitats with areas that can provide sufficient cover. They live in southern and southern east Asia. This species is never found very far from water sources, and seems to prefer very damp terrain. The Burmese python subspecies is found throughout Asia, including southern China, Indochina, Burma, and portions of Indonesia (Borneo, Java, Sumatra, and the Celeb Islands). They are so widespread their population is unknown.

 

Python molurus is considered a lower risk for extinction. The species is close to being vulnerable, but it does not meet any of the indications to consider it vulnerable as yet. Python molurus is carnivorous. It's diet consists mostly of live prey. Its staples are rodents and other mammals. A small portion of its diet consists of birds, amphibians, and reptiles. When looking for food python molurus will either stalk prey, ambush, or scavenge for carrion. These snakes have very poor eyesight. To compensate for this, the species has a well developed sense of smell. Also, within each scale along the upper lip, they have a heat sensor which can sense the warmth of nearby prey. Indian pythons kill prey by biting and constricting until the prey suffocates. Prey victoms are then swallowed whole. To accomplish the feat of swallowing the prey, python molurus dislocates its jaw and stretches its elastic skin around the prey. This allows these snakes to swallow food items many times larger than their own heads. In cases of scavenging there is no constriction of the prey.

 

Pythons are at the top of the food chain, so they have no predators other than humans. Humans may kill pythons in order to sell their skins. There is a high amount of exportation for the pet trade. The skin of Indian pythons is highly valued in the fashion industry due to its exotic look. In its native range it is also hunted as a source of food for humans. Python molurus is a solitary species. Mating is the only time that these snakes are commonly found in pairs. Indian pythons will generally move only when food is scarce or when threatened. They may stalk prey, first locating it by scent or by sensing the body heat of the prey with their heat pits, and then following the trail.

 

These snakes are primarily found on the ground, but will sometimes climb trees. Indian pythons are also very often found in or near water. They are expert swimmers, and can stay submerged without breathing for up to thirty minutes at a time. During colder months, starting in October and ending in February, Indian pythons stay hidden and will usually enter a brief period of hibernation until the temperature rises again.

 

Author: Erin C
Published: 02/2007

 

Photo Credit: Head of Indian Rock Python (Python molurus)

Photograph by L. Shyamal Wynaad, 2006

 

Bibliography Padgett, J. 2003. "Python molurus" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed February 04, 2007 at http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Python_molurus.html. Wikipedia, 2006. “Indian Python” (On-line), at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Python Dr. Susan Evans, The Deep Scaly Project, 2003, "Python molurus" (On-line), Digital Morphology. Accessed February 4, 2007 at http://digimorph.org/specimens/Python_molurus.