The Burmese python is one of the largest snakes in the world. It is threatened in its native Asia but is an invasive predator in Florida, where it has caused dramatic declines in native mammals.
Interesting facts
- Burmese pythons released or escaped from the pet trade are now established in Florida’s Everglades.
- In the Everglades, raccoon and opossum numbers have crashed where pythons are common.
- Florida holds a yearly ‘Python Challenge’ to remove them.
- The heaviest recorded in Florida weighed about 98 kg.
- In its native Asia, the species is threatened by hunting for skins, meat and medicine.
- Females coil around their eggs and shiver to keep them warm.
Behaviour
Burmese pythons are ambush predators and strong swimmers. They are mostly nocturnal and spend much time near water.
Breeding and young
Females lay about 12–36 eggs, sometimes up to 100, and incubate them by coiling around them and shivering.
Threats and conservation
In Asia: hunting for the skin trade, food and traditional medicine, and habitat loss.
Where to see it
- Chitwan National Park, Nepal
- Kaziranga National Park, India
- Khao Yai National Park, Thailand
- Reptile houses at zoos
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Everglades National Park Wildlife Guide
