Python brongersmai | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Subphylum: | Vertebrata |
Class: | Reptilia |
Order: | Squamata |
Suborder: | Serpentes |
Family: | Pythonidae |
Genus: | Python |
Species: | P. brongersmai |
Binomial name | |
Python brongersmai Stull, 1938 |
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Synonyms | |
Python brongersmai, commonly known as Brongersma's short-tailed python, the blood python, or the red short-tailed python, is a species of python, a nonvenomous snake endemic to the Malay Peninsula.
The specific name, brongersmai, is in honor of Dutch herpetologist Leo Brongersma.
P. brongersmai is found in peninsular (Western) Malaysia, Sumatra east of the central dividing range of mountains, Bangka Island and other islands in the Strait of Malacca, including the Lingga Islands, Riau islands, and Pinang. and Thailand.
The natural habitat of P. brongersmai is often marshes and tropical swamps.
P. brongersmai is a primarily crepuscular species – usually active around dawn and dusk.
Hatchlings range from 25–43 cm (10–17 in) in total length (including tail). Adult males typically range from 91–152 cm (36–60 in) in total length, and females between 120–180 cm (48–72 in) although a few have been recorded at 240 cm (96 in). These snakes generally look overweight due to their robust structure.
Most experts agree they can live 20 years or more in captivity if proper care is given.
The color pattern consists of rich, bright red to orange to a duller rusty red ground color, although populations with yellow and brown are known. This is overlaid with yellow and tan blotches and stripes that run the length of the body, as well as tan and black spots that extend up the flanks. The belly is white, often with small black markings. The head is usually a shade of grey; individual snakes can change how light and dark the head is. A white postocular stripe runs down and back from the posterior edge of the eye.