Timeline Photos
ACRES 
Oct 3, 2016 
ACRES, NGOs 
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MEET OUR NATIVE WILDLIFE: RETICULATED PYTHON
Singapore is the home to one of the largest snakes in the world: the reticulated python (more frequently referred to as “retics” by our wildlife rescue officers).
These beautiful snakes can grow up 10 metres long! The largest individual rescued by ACRES was around 5 metres in length.
Reticulated pythons have zig-zagging black lines on their bodies, interspersed with yellow-brown and dark brown or medium grey patches which can be found along their body. They also have a dark line in middle of the head, and vertical pupils in orange eyes.
Reticulated python are non- venomous. They have special pits on the upper lip to detect prey, and sharp backward facing teeth. They kill their prey through constriction, and swallow their prey whole, leaving behind very little evidence of their prey.
Reticulated pythons prey on small animals including frogs, rats, chickens, macaques, civets, cats and many others. Many of their prey are urban animals, which make them one of the most commonly slighted snakes in Singapore.
Aside from urban areas, retics are also sighted in green spaces such as nature reserves and parks, and are found around large water bodies, including storm water drains. These pythons are excellent climbers and swimmers. On land, retics do not move very fast. As ambushers, speed is not necessary.
If you see a reticulated python in an urban environment, do not panic. If you are concerned for the welfare of the snake, you can call the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Hotline at 97837782 for advice. If you happen to see a retic in the drain or in a forested area, it is best to leave them alone and to calmly move away. If you happen to see them in the wild, it might pay to take some time to appreciate them in their natural habitat. Just remember to keep your distance!
Source: https://www.facebook.com/ACRESasia/photos/a.223077136522.136..
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