The Python is an absolute marvel, a creature that strikes fear into humans even though there have been very few cases of Python attacks on humans. Some humans actually keep these snakes as pets and personally feed them without harm. One Florida man did make the mistake of getting too close while feeding his pet Python and almost suffered the fate usually reserved for jungle creatures who venture into the snake’s path. His pet snake wrapped itself around him and had his forehead in its mouth before he was rescued by two of his friends.

Size Matters

Generally speaking, the Python is not a real danger to humans. It is not a poisonous reptile but does all the damage by grasping its victim tightly before opening its unhinged jaws to draw it in. It is staggering to watch the process in action as Python swallows animals you would not think possible at first. The size of the animal a Python can eat is relative to the size of the Python itself. Watching a large Python take a deer into its mouth is almost unbelievable to watch. Smaller Pythons use the same method but obviously have to limit themselves to smaller prey.

Pythons are found in Asia and Africa where they need the warm climates and their natural habitat means they can find suitable places to reside which is usually in caves or trees. Coiling themselves in trees puts them in a great position to catch their prey by surprise. having caught the creature of choice, the Python constricts to squeeze the life out of the poor animal and then proceeds to swallow it whole. The digestive system then takes over working at pace to break up the animal swallowed.

Danger From Humans

The snake generally is seen as one of the “baddies” in the animal kingdom but compared to other wild creatures is less of a danger to humans. Of course, it would only be wise to keep your distance as a Python could just as easily devour a human as it could an antelope. The fact is that, like most creatures in the wild, the Python is in more danger from humans than humans are from Pythons. Snake skin can be a very lucrative business for unscrupulous people as they turn them into boots, bags and other items that sell to unprincipled people.

The Python and other snakes have had a bad press since the first snake appeared in the Garden of Eden and since then has always been seen in a bad light. The Python is actually a majestic creature living in its natural home and it is only when humans encroach on its territory, does it become dangerous. Some people choose to keep these snakes as pets but they always fare better in their own environment and should be left to live their lives where they belong.