Reticulated Python

About the Reticulated Python in Singapore

Last updated 3 June 2026

Recognized as the longest snake in the world, the Reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) also ranks as the third heaviest species.

Despite their fearsome reputation, Reticulated pythons are non-venomous and generally pose little threat to humans, especially if undisturbed.

Identifying features

Check out some of the identifying features of the Reticulated Python below.

Distinguished by the geometric but irregular patterning on their skin, the scales of the reticulated python can range in colour from brown, to black and even gold. Their scientific name “reticulatus” means “net-like”, and was given due to the net-like pattern found on their skin.

Large individuals can reach between 5-7m in length, but most individuals in Singapore tend to be smaller due to the lack of large mammals as prey.

Habitat and ecology

Generally nocturnal, Reticulated pythons in Singapore move within urban areas via drainpipes. Being good swimmers, they will often swim in canals to travel between locations or to escape danger. While larger individuals can feed on large mammals such as wild boars and deer in forested areas, in Singapore, they do not tend to grow as large, and thus usually feed on small mammals such as rats.

They also lay large clutches of eggs ranging from 15-80 eggs per clutch, and take around 88 days to hatch.