The Pythonidae, commonly known as pythons, are a family of nonvenomous snakes found in Africa, Asia, and Australia.

The reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) is the longest snake in the world, with a maximum recorded length of 31.5 feet (9.6 metres).

Contrary to popular belief, even the larger species do not crush their prey to death. The speed with which the coils are applied is impressive, and the force they exert may be significant, but death is caused by suffocation or cardiac arrest.

The Philadelphia Zoo received a ball python from an animal dealer in 1945, and it lived there for 48 years, setting the longevity record for a snake in captivity.

Large pythons usually eat animals about the size of a house cat, but some Asian species have been known to take down adult deer, and the African rock python (Python sebae) has been known to eat antelope.

The ball python (Python regius) is also known as the royal python because African tribal leaders used to wear the snakes around their necks like jewelry. Although the ball python is the smallest of the African pythons, it can still reach lengths of up to 6 feet, which makes quite a large necklace.

Ten genera and 42 species are currently recognized.

The ball python derives its name from the fact that, if threatened, it will roll into a tight defensive ball with its head and neck tucked between its coils. The snake's coils are so tight and compact that it's able to keep itself protected from all types of predators, it is the only python that utilizes this defensive posture.

In northwestern Ghana, people see pythons as a savior and have taboos to prevent the snake from being harmed or eaten. Their folklore states that this is because a python once helped them flee from their enemies by transforming into a log to allow them to cross a river.

A female Burmese python may lay 50 to 100 eggs and will wrap its body around the clutch to keep it warm and to defend the eggs against predators. The female python can raise its temperature by rhythmically twitching muscles, which generates heat and helps incubate the eggs.