# Reticulated Python

> Reticulated Python (Malayopython reticulatus). The reticulated python can grow exceptionally long and subdues prey by constriction; it is nonvenomous but large animals still require distance.

Source: https://panduanhewan.org/en/species/malayopython-reticulatus/ · Updated 1 October 2026 · English · Bahasa Indonesia: https://panduanhewan.org/id/spesies/malayopython-reticulatus/
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**Review status:** This guide was compiled from the listed species sources and observation records; it has not been reviewed by a taxonomic specialist. GBIF records are neither a census nor proof of native range.

## Quick answer

The Reticulated Python (*Malayopython reticulatus*) is a reptile in the family Pythonidae. In Indonesia, observation records come mainly from Bali, West Java, Jakarta. Diet: constrictor that preys mainly on mammals; a carnivore. IUCN Red List status: Least Concern.

| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | *Malayopython reticulatus* |
| Former scientific name | *Python reticulatus* |
| Indonesian name | Sanca Kembang |
| Group | Reptiles |
| Family | Pythonidae |
| Observation records | Bali, West Java, Jakarta |
| Taxonomic group | Squamata |
| GBIF records | 427 human-observation records, 2016–2026 |
| Data retrieved | 2026-09-23 |
| IUCN status | Least Concern · [IUCN Red List (via GBIF)](https://www.gbif.org/species/9260388) · checked 1 October 2026 |
| Clutch size | Typically 25–50 eggs (recorded range 8–107), brooded by the female for about 90 days · [Animal Diversity Web — Python reticulatus](https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Python_reticulatus/) |
| Diet type | Carnivore (meat-eater) — constrictor that preys mainly on mammals · [Ecology Asia](https://www.ecologyasia.com/verts/snakes/reticulated_python.htm) |
| Reproduction | Laying eggs (oviparous) · [Reptile Database](https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Malayopython&species=reticulatus) |
| Venom or poison | Not venomous · [Uyeda et al. 2022, Snakebite Envenomation, Attitudes, and Behavior toward Snakes in Banten, Indonesia (Animals)](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9404431/) |
| Active | Nocturnal (active at night) — By day it often rests, for example on branches above rivers. · [Reticulated Python - BiodiversitySG, National Parks Board (NParks) Singapore](https://biodiversitysg.nparks.gov.sg/our-biodiversity/reptiles/snakes/reticulated-python/) |

## What is the Reticulated Python?

Reticulated Python refers to Malayopython reticulatus, in the genus Malayopython, family Pythonidae, and class Squamata. The scientific name follows the accepted taxon in the GBIF Backbone Taxonomy. Common names can vary between places; the scientific name distinguishes this species from relatives.

Evidence: [GBIF Backbone Taxonomy — accepted taxon](https://www.gbif.org/species/9260388)

## What is known about the Reticulated Python?

The reticulated python can grow exceptionally long and subdues prey by constriction; it is nonvenomous but large animals still require distance.

Read that fact alongside the scientific name and species source, not as proof from an unclear photograph. Populations, ages and taxonomic limits can differ; when identification is uncertain, record the broader group.

Evidence: [Species account — background reading](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/reticulated%20python)

## How many Indonesian records name the Reticulated Python?

When checked on 2026-09-23, the GBIF search returned 427 human-observation records from Indonesia under this species name for 2016–2026. That is a count of indexed records, not an estimate of population, abundance or unique individuals. Observation effort can vary by location, and the count may change as records are added or identifications revised.

Evidence: [GBIF occurrence search — Indonesia, human observations, 2016–2026](https://api.gbif.org/v1/occurrence/search?country=ID&speciesKey=9260388&basisOfRecord=HUMAN_OBSERVATION&year=2016%2C2026&limit=0&facet=stateProvince&facetLimit=7)

## Where were observations reported?

Place labels appearing in the results include Bali, West Java, Jakarta. They are labels attached to records, not a complete range map or evidence that the species occurs only there. Some labels may be broad or inconsistent. Check the underlying records before using the location information for field decisions.

Evidence: [GBIF occurrence search — Indonesia, human observations, 2016–2026](https://api.gbif.org/v1/occurrence/search?country=ID&speciesKey=9260388&basisOfRecord=HUMAN_OBSERVATION&year=2016%2C2026&limit=0&facet=stateProvince&facetLimit=7)

## How can you observe the Reticulated Python?

A safe-distance photograph can record body, head and tail pattern and locality without handling the animal. Colour alone cannot establish whether a snake is venomous; seek local professional help if there is risk. A well-documented sighting helps others check the identification without turning one encounter into a conservation-status claim.

## Explore related animals

To explore this group further, compare Reticulated Python with Keeled Slug Snake, Marbled Bow-fingered Gecko, Pacific Bluetail Skink. These links reflect a shared genus, family, order, class or catalogue group; taxonomic proximity does not imply identical habitat needs or conservation status.

## Scientific classification of the Reticulated Python

| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Reptilia |
| Order | Squamata |
| Family | Pythonidae |
| Genus | *Malayopython* |
| Species | *Malayopython reticulatus* |

Source: [GBIF Backbone Taxonomy](https://www.gbif.org/dataset/d7dddbf4-2cf0-4f39-9b2a-bb099caae36c)

## Common questions about the Reticulated Python

### What is the scientific name of the Reticulated Python?

The scientific name of the Reticulated Python is *Malayopython reticulatus*, in the family Pythonidae. In Indonesian it is called Sanca Kembang. A former scientific name still often used: *Python reticulatus*.

### What kind of animal is the Reticulated Python?

The Reticulated Python is a reptile in the family Pythonidae. By diet it is a carnivore (meat-eater): a constrictor that preys mainly on mammals.

### Where does the Reticulated Python live in Indonesia?

Observation records of the Reticulated Python summarised in this guide mainly come from Bali, West Java, Jakarta. That list is not a complete range map.

### What does the Reticulated Python eat?

The Reticulated Python is a constrictor that preys mainly on mammals. That makes it a carnivore (meat-eater). Source: [Ecology Asia](https://www.ecologyasia.com/verts/snakes/reticulated_python.htm).

### How does the Reticulated Python reproduce?

The Reticulated Python reproduces by laying eggs (oviparous). Source: [Reptile Database](https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Malayopython&species=reticulatus).

### Is the Reticulated Python venomous?

No. The Reticulated Python is not venomous. Not venomous, but large pythons bite hard and have been reported to attack and even swallow people. Source: [Uyeda et al. 2022, Snakebite Envenomation, Attitudes, and Behavior toward Snakes in Banten, Indonesia (Animals)](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9404431/).

Do not catch, handle or disturb wild animals. If bitten, stung or exposed to its toxins, go to the nearest health facility straight away.

### Is the Reticulated Python nocturnal?

The cited source records the Reticulated Python as nocturnal (active at night). By day it often rests, for example on branches above rivers. Source: [Reticulated Python - BiodiversitySG, National Parks Board (NParks) Singapore](https://biodiversitysg.nparks.gov.sg/our-biodiversity/reptiles/snakes/reticulated-python/).

See also [the list of nocturnal and diurnal animals in Indonesia](https://panduanhewan.org/en/species/nocturnal-and-diurnal-animals/).

### What is the scientific classification of the Reticulated Python?

Scientific classification of the Reticulated Python: kingdom Animalia, phylum Chordata, class Reptilia, order Squamata, family Pythonidae, genus *Malayopython*, species *Malayopython reticulatus*.

Source: [GBIF Backbone Taxonomy](https://www.gbif.org/dataset/d7dddbf4-2cf0-4f39-9b2a-bb099caae36c), adjusted to the ranks commonly used in school biology.

### Is the Reticulated Python endangered?

No, according to the global IUCN assessment. On the IUCN Red List, the Reticulated Python is listed as Least Concern: it does not qualify for a threatened category or for Near Threatened in the global assessment. Source: [IUCN Red List (via GBIF)](https://www.gbif.org/species/9260388), checked 1 October 2026.

This global category is separate from legal protection in Indonesia. To check whether the Reticulated Python is a protected species, consult the current national list of [protected species](https://panduanhewan.org/en/species/protected/) or contact the local [BKSDA](https://panduanhewan.org/en/bksda-offices/) (natural resources conservation office).

## Sources & references

1. [GBIF Backbone Taxonomy — accepted taxon](https://www.gbif.org/species/9260388)
2. [GBIF occurrence search — Indonesia, human observations, 2016–2026](https://api.gbif.org/v1/occurrence/search?country=ID&speciesKey=9260388&basisOfRecord=HUMAN_OBSERVATION&year=2016%2C2026&limit=0&facet=stateProvince&facetLimit=7)
3. [iNaturalist — exact species taxon and community observations](https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/491869)
4. [Species account — background reading](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/reticulated%20python)
5. [Animal Diversity Web — Python reticulatus](https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Python_reticulatus/)
6. [Ecology Asia](https://www.ecologyasia.com/verts/snakes/reticulated_python.htm)
7. [Reptile Database](https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Malayopython&species=reticulatus)
8. [Reticulated Python - BiodiversitySG, National Parks Board (NParks) Singapore](https://biodiversitysg.nparks.gov.sg/our-biodiversity/reptiles/snakes/reticulated-python/)
9. [Uyeda et al. 2022, Snakebite Envenomation, Attitudes, and Behavior toward Snakes in Banten, Indonesia (Animals)](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9404431/)
10. [GBIF Backbone Taxonomy (GBIF)](https://www.gbif.org/dataset/d7dddbf4-2cf0-4f39-9b2a-bb099caae36c)

## Further reading

[Python: facts, threats and conservation](https://worldanimalrescuenetwork.org/wildlife-guides/python/) — World Animal Rescue Network. A broader overview that covers this animal.

_Related site: PanduanHewan’s founder is also a director of World Animal Rescue Network._

## Keep exploring

- [Keeled Slug Snake](https://panduanhewan.org/en/species/pareas-carinatus/)
- [Marbled Bow-fingered Gecko](https://panduanhewan.org/en/species/cyrtodactylus-marmoratus/)
- [Pacific Bluetail Skink](https://panduanhewan.org/en/species/emoia-caeruleocauda/)
- [White-lipped Island Pitviper](https://panduanhewan.org/en/species/trimeresurus-insularis/)

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Cite: PanduanHewan. (2026). Reticulated Python. PanduanHewan.org. https://panduanhewan.org/en/species/malayopython-reticulatus/