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General Information About the African Rock Python (Python sebae)
Like its cousin the Burmese Python, the African Rock Python is one of the "giant" snakes in the world. Adults may reach lengths of over 16 feet and weigh in at over 150 lbs. Unlike the Burmese, Rock pythons have a bad temperment and are aggressive.
African Rock Pythons are diurnal rainforest dwellers. When younger they are equally at home on the ground and in trees, but as they gain girth they tend to restrict most of their movements to the ground. They are also excellent swimmers. Like all diurnal snakes, African Rock Pythons spend the majority of their time basking in the sun to moderate their body temperature, and to aid in digestion of meals.
African Rock Pythons are light colored snakes with many dark brown blotches bordered in black down the back. Their perceived attractiveness of their skin pattern contributes to their popularity with both reptile keepers and the leather industry. The pattern is similar in color, but different in actual pattern to the Burmese Python, sometimes resulting in confusion of the two species outside of their natural habitats.