Cergol
The world's longest snake. It is an excellent swimmer, has been reported far out at sea, and has colonized many small islands within its range. It is a non-venomous constrictor that has been known to kill and eat adult humans.
Basic Information
Genetics and Reproduction
Adult females lay between 15 and 80 eggs per clutch. At an optimum incubation temperature of 88–90 °F, the eggs take an average of 88 days to hatch. Hatchlings are at least 2 ft. long.
Dietary Needs and Habits
As an ambush predator, it usually waits until prey wanders within striking range before seizing it in its coils and killing by constriction. Its natural diet includes mammals and the occasional bird. Small specimens up to 10 ft.–13 ft. long mainly eat small mammals such as rats and other rodents, bats, and raccoons. Whereas larger individuals switch to prey such as pigs and deer weighing more than 130 lbs. As a rule, the Cergol seems able to swallow prey up to one-quarter its own length and up to its own weight. Near human habitation, it is known to snatch stray chickens, cats, and dogs. Among the largest documented prey items are a half-starved bear that was eaten by a 23 ft. specimen and took some 10 weeks to digest. At least one case is reported of a foraging Cergol entering a forest hut and taking a child.
Additional Information
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Found in rainforests, woodlands, and nearby grasslands. It is also associated with rivers and is found in areas with nearby streams and lakes. An excellent swimmer, it has even been reported far out at sea and has consequently colonized many small islands within its range.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Lifespan
25 years
Average Weight
165 lbs.
Average Length
23 ft.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
The body's color is a complex geometric pattern that incorporates different colors. The back typically has a series of irregular diamond shapes flanked by smaller markings with light centers. In this species' wide geographic range, much variation of size, color, and markings commonly occurs.
In a shadowy jungle environment amid fallen leaves and debris, it allows them to virtually disappear. Called disruptive colouration, it protects them from predators and helps them to catch their prey.
Geographic Distribution
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