A python constricts a giant lizard in the open, only to realize it is being watched. It then drags its kill to enjoy in some nearby bushes.
“While out on drive, we saw some commotion up ahead in an open sandy area. Upon closer inspection, we realized it was an African rock python attempting to kill a monitor lizard!”
African rock pythons are large and powerful snakes. They can grow up to 20 feet in length and weigh over 150 pounds. They are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa and are known for their incredible ability to constrict their prey.
“The snake was able to get a good anchor bite right around the head of the lizard. It then began coiling around the lizard. The lizard was immobilized by the sheer strength of this snake. With every struggle of the lizard, the snake tightened its grip.”
Unlike venomous snakes, rock pythons kill their prey by wrapping their powerful bodies around it and squeezing it until it suffocates. This technique is highly effective and allows the python to take down prey much larger than itself.
“After successfully constricting the monitor lizard, the rock python began to drag it towards some nearby bushes. With complete ease, the snake was able to drag the lizard through the sand and into the bushes, out of sight.”
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Despite being relatively slim and flexible, rock pythons are capable of swallowing prey that is much larger than their own heads. They do this by dislocating their jaw and stretching their skin and muscles to accommodate the meal. It can take several days for the python to digest such a large meal, during which time it will remain hidden and vulnerable to predators.
“I could hardly believe my eyes as I watched the python drag the monitor lizard away. I knew that I was witnessing a truly rare and incredible sight, one that I would never forget. Despite not being able to see the actual consumption of the lizard, I knew for certain that the snake was going to sleep with a full belly.”
Python drags huge lizard
The python slithers quietly through the dense undergrowth of the jungle, its keen senses alert to any movement or sound. Suddenly, it senses something massive and powerful nearby. As it cautiously approaches, the python sees a giant lizard, easily three times its size, basking lazily in a shaft of sunlight.
The python’s hunger drives it forward, and it coils around the lizard’s body, sinking its sharp teeth into the thick, scaly hide. The giant lizard roars in pain and thrashes wildly, but the python holds on tenaciously, refusing to let go.
With each passing moment, the python’s grip tightens, its muscles straining as it pulls the massive lizard across the jungle floor. Despite the lizard’s struggles, the python’s jaws remain locked in place, crushing bone and tearing flesh with each powerful bite.
Finally, after what feels like an eternity, the python has done what it set out to do. The giant lizard lies still and lifeless, its massive body limp and motionless. The python slithers away, satisfied and full, ready to face whatever challenges the jungle may throw its way.
