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EXPLORE > ANIMALS > REPTILES
Python molurus bivittatus
As the name might suggest, the Burmese python is not a native to either North or South America. It is an example of an invasive species, an animal or plant that was introduced artificially and has begun to displace native species.
Burmese pythons are a popular pet among reptile enthusiasts in the United States. Unfortunately, whether by accident or design, many of these reptiles escaped captivity and have managed to live comfortably in the wetlands of the southern part of the country. The python “invasion” of the Florida Everglades has been particularly profound with over 1,300 animals having been captured by the end of 2009. These snakes are a fair match for other predators in the area, with some dramatic footage being captured over the years of pythons killing and eating large native species such as the America alligator.
Range and Habitat
Historically in southern and southeast Asia. They are an invasive species in Florida and along select areas of the Gulf Coast region of the United States where they live in wetlands and mangrove swamps.
Conservation Status
Threatened in the wild. These snakes are frequently targeted by human beings for the pet trade, for use of their skins in leather products or for folk remedies
Python molurus bivittatus
As the name might suggest, the Burmese python is not a native to either North or South America. It is an example of an invasive species, an animal or plant that was introduced artificially and has begun to displace native species.
Burmese pythons are a popular pet among reptile enthusiasts in the United States. Unfortunately, whether by accident or design, many of these reptiles escaped captivity and have managed to live comfortably in the wetlands of the southern part of the country. The python “invasion” of the Florida Everglades has been particularly profound with over 1,300 animals having been captured by the end of 2009. These snakes are a fair match for other predators in the area, with some dramatic footage being captured over the years of pythons killing and eating large native species such as the America alligator.
Range and Habitat
Historically in southern and southeast Asia. They are an invasive species in Florida and along select areas of the Gulf Coast region of the United States where they live in wetlands and mangrove swamps.
Conservation Status
Threatened in the wild. These snakes are frequently targeted by human beings for the pet trade, for use of their skins in leather products or for folk remedies
