The Burmese Python (python molurus bivittatus) is the biggest of all Indian Python subspecies and is known as one of the 6 biggest snakes in the entire world. The Burmese python can be found in rain forest areas of Southeast Asia, and is often found nesting near watery areas. Although primarily semi-aquatic, the Burmese python can occasionally be found in trees.As one of the largest snakes on the planet, the Burmese python grows to an average length of 7 meters or around 23 feet. Tipping the scales at 91 kilograms (200 lb), the Burmese python will continue to grow all throughout its life, with the females growing considerably bigger than the males of the species. One of the biggest specimens of the Burmese Python is found at Serpent Safari Park in Gurnee, Illinois, where the snake holds the record for being the heaviest living snake held in captivity. The Serpent Safari Park’s Burmese python weighs in at 183 kilograms, or 403 lb., and measures up to 8.2 meters (27 feet).
The Burmese python is a light-colored snake, and its scales have many brown blotches with black borders. These blotches are found along the snake’s back, and makes the snake’s skin pattern a popular choice among makers of leather goods and reptilian collectors.
The Burmese python’s territory extends throughout Southeast Asia. The areas of Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Indonesia, and Cambodia are home to the Burmese python, which is an excellent swimmer and favors living in watery areas. The Burmese python is also an excellent climber, thanks to its powerful and prehensile tail, and can be found atop higher areas aside from its usual grassland, swamp, or marsh habitat.
The Burmese python of the wild are considered a threatened species, and is listed on Appendix II of CITES. Like its python cousins the Indian, African Rock, and Reticulated python, the Burmese python has been seen as a source of leather for the world market, which has led to the slaying of many of its numbers. They are also hunted for folk medicine materials, and some are caught in order to be sold as pets.
The Burmese python is a majestic specimen, worthy of being a powerful representative for the snakes of the world. As a pet, it should be handled carefully and with much attention, as they are dormant creatures that should still be respected for their capabilities.