Well Wild Fact followers, I made it back after an incredible adventure flying around Kluane National Park. If you enjoy hiking, camping and just being around nature than I highly suggest taking a trip up to the Yukon to check out this National treasure.  I am done promoting the beautiful scenery of Canada’s north for today so let’s move on to our Wild Fact.  If you are a little squeamish about snakes than today’s fact may not be for you; however, I promise that the Burmese Python will keep you entertained for the next five minutes.

We can find the Burmese Python hanging out in the grassy marshes of Southeast Asia.  They shouldn’t be too tough to find since they are among the largest snakes on earth. Make sure you are sitting for this next little tidbit of information.  This particular snake is capable of reaching up to 7 m (23′) in length and can weigh up to 90 kg (200 lbs).  I think accidentally stumbling upon a 200 lb snake would definitely startle me.  For some reason I keep thinking about that movie, “Anaconda”.

The Burmese Python starts its life out slithering around the trees, which sounds safe for us, right? But as these snakes mature and become heavier they have a tough time climbing trees so they quickly become ground dwelling snakes.  These giant snakes are also proficient swimmers as they are capable of staying submerged for up to 30 minutes. So let’s see, the trees, ground and now water is not safe from these massive snakes.  Where else is there to go in Southeast Asia? Believe it or not their docile nature, quick growth rate and beautiful appearance makes these snakes very popular among pet owners. Personally, I think it is crazy to have a 200 lb snake that could easily crush you hanging around the house. But I guess I am just a little old fashioned like that.  In all honesty the Burmese Python is not known to be aggressive and usually not a threat to humans.  Although some pet handlers have suffered serious consequences from improperly treating and handling their pythons.

Burmese Python Fast Fact – The Burmese Python has about 400 sets of ribs and a very flexible spine. This obviously allows them to easily move without the use of legs.

That does it for today’s Fact on the Burmese Python.  Have a great day everyone!