African Rock Python

The African Rock Python is the largest snake native to Africa and one of the largest snake species in the world. It ranges widely across the sub-Saharan savanna and woodland belt, from West Africa through Central and East Africa.

It is non-venomous, relying on powerful constriction to kill its prey. While it is not venomous, its large size means it is capable of delivering a serious bite, and very large individuals have occasionally been implicated in attacks on humans, though such incidents remain rare.

• Massive, heavy-bodied snake with a broad, triangular head clearly set off from the neck
• Bold mottled pattern of brown, olive, and tan blotches along the body
• Dark spearhead-shaped marking on top of the head
• Smooth, glossy scales
• One of the largest snake species worldwide, with some individuals exceeding 5-6 m

It is distinguished from the Southern African Python primarily by range, with the rock python occupying the more northern and central parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

Found in a broad range of habitats including savanna, grassland, semi-desert, and forest edge, typically near permanent water sources such as rivers and swamps.

Its range spans much of sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal in the west through to Ethiopia and Kenya in the east and south to parts of southern Africa.

Primarily nocturnal, though it basks by day, especially in cooler seasons. It is an ambush and active hunting predator capable of taking very large prey, including antelope, warthogs, and crocodiles, subduing them through powerful constriction.

It is oviparous, laying large clutches of eggs that the female incubates by coiling around them, providing warmth and protection until hatching.