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Reptile Fact Sheet
Royal Python
VU· VulnerablePython regius
Savannah, grassland and open forest, often near rodent burrows.
Fact Sheet
About this animal
Key facts about the royal python.
Common Name
Royal Python
Scientific Name
Python regius
Classification
Reptilia • Squamata • Pythonidae
Distribution
West and central Africa — from Senegal to Uganda.
Habitat
Savannah, grassland and open forest, often near rodent burrows.
Range map · red pin marks a typical locationView larger map
Diet
Carnivore: small mammals such as rats, mice and shrews.
Size
1.2–1.5 m (4–5 ft); females larger than males.
Lifespan
20–30 years, sometimes over 40 in human care.
Conservation Status
VU· Vulnerable
Near Threatened — pressure from habitat loss and wildlife trade.Behaviour
Shy and secretive; curls into a tight ball when frightened.
Adaptations
Heat-sensing pits along the lips detect warm-blooded prey in the dark. Strong constrictor.
Predators
Birds of prey, wild pigs, big cats and humans.
Interesting Facts
- Also called the 'ball python' because of its defensive curl.
- Legend says Cleopatra wore one around her wrist — hence 'royal'.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA) · Habitat: West African savanna — Wikimedia Commons