Burmese Pythons

12.02.2025

Burmese Pythons

Why in the news?   

              University of Florida scientists have statistically analyzed large amounts of data collected by Burmese python contractors, revealing critical insights about how to most efficiently remove the reptiles.

About Burmese Pythons:

• It is one of the largest snake species in the world. It can grow up to 20 feet and weigh more than 250 pounds, with females being larger than males.
• It is a non-venomous, solitary and mainly nocturnal forest dweller snake.
• It is also an excellent swimmer and is able to stay submerged for up to half an hour.
• Burmese pythons spend the majority of their time hidden in the underbrush and will usually move only when hunting or when threatened.
• Until 2009, it was considered a subspecies of Python molurus, but is now recognized as a distinct species.
• Habitat: grasslands, marshes, swamps, wet rocky areas, caves, woodlands, rainforests, mangrove forests, river valleys and forests with open clearings

Distribution:

• It is native to the tropical rainforests and subtropical forests of eastern and northeastern India, Myanmar, southern China, Southeast Asia, and to some extent of the Indonesian archipelago. Its distribution also encompasses eastern Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh.
• It is an invasive species in Florida, as a result of the pet trade.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN: Vulnerable

                                                              Source: Down to earth

With reference to Burmese Python, consider the following:

1. It is a non-venomous and nocturnal forest dweller snake.

2. It is an excellent swimmer and is able to stay submerged.

3. It is only found in the tropical rainforests and subtropical jungles of eastern and northeastern India.

How many of the above statements are correct?

A.Only one

B.Only two

C.All three

D.None

Answer B