Taxonomy
Snakes are a diverse group of reptiles that includes over 3,500 known species. They are classified in the order Squamata, which also includes lizards and amphisbaenians. Pythons are a family of snakes that includes six genera and 41 known species. They are classified in the subfamily Pythoninae of the family Pythonidae.
Size
Snakes can vary greatly in size, from the tiny Barbados threadsnake, which is only about four inches long, to the massive reticulated python, which can grow up to 33 feet long. Pythons are generally large snakes, with some species reaching lengths of over 20 feet.
Body Shape
Snakes have a long, cylindrical body with a smooth, scaly skin. Pythons have a similar body shape, but their scales are often larger and more prominent.
Head
Snakes have a triangular head with a blunt snout. Pythons have a wider, more rounded head with a more pronounced snout.
Eyes
Snakes have round pupils, while pythons have vertical pupils. This difference in pupil shape gives pythons better vision in low-light conditions.
Teeth
Snakes have small, sharp teeth that they use to catch and hold their prey. Pythons have larger, more powerful teeth that they use to kill their prey.
Feeding
Snakes are carnivorous and eat a variety of animals, including rodents, birds, lizards, and amphibians. Pythons are also carnivorous and eat a variety of animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Reproduction
Snakes reproduce sexually, with males and females mating to produce offspring. Pythons also reproduce sexually, but they are unique in that they lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young.
Habitat
Snakes can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands. Pythons are found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Conservation Status
Many species of snakes are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and the pet trade. Some species of pythons are also threatened, but they are not as endangered as many other species of snakes.