The reticulated python is the longest snake in the world.

The name reticulated means net-like. The marks on the python look like a net.

These pythons live in Southeast Asia. They live in tropical forests. They are often near ponds, rivers and streams.

The marks help it blend in with fallen leaves. The leaves are on the forest floor.

These pythons are mostly active at night.

They swim well and often spend time in water. A big snake moves more easily there. It can hide while it waits for food.

Young pythons spend much time in trees and bushes. Big ones stay mostly on the ground.

A python waits in ambush until food comes close.

It eats mammals and birds. Big ones eat animals as large as deer and pigs.

A python has no venom.

A python is a reptile that lays eggs. A mother python coils around her eggs. She shivers her muscles to make heat. The heat keeps the eggs warm.

Words to know

• reticulated: net-like
• ambush: wait to catch
• coils: wraps around