Royal Pythons The true kings of the vivarium
Python regius Royal Pythons are compact thick bodied snakes which are found throughout the African continent south of the 15˚ longitudinal line. The average sized P. regius will achieve a maximum length of 4 ft with the occasional large female reaching lengths of 6 ft. Almost all Pythons have pitted labial scales which are extremely sensitive to temperature variation. Whether these are used for hunting as in the Viperidae is unclear scientifically but, from personal observations in my own snakes I am inclined to believe that they are indeed used for just such a purpose.
