Meet Dracula the Blood Python , Python Brongersmai .

Deep in the remote forests of the Malay Peninsula extending through Thailand and Sumatra , coiled in an ambush position under a pile of leaves camouflaged by the dapple effect of the sun poking its rays through the dense canopy overhead , is a hunting machine . Meet the Blood Python ( also called the “ Short-tailed Python ”)! Though it ’ s bright red and earthen tone colors and intricate patterns are a spectacular sight for the eyes , these same colors and patterns allow this crepuscular hunter to go undetected by potential prey and with a well-placed strike utilizing heat sensing loreal pits and sharp , recurved teeth , it grabs and holds onto its prey followed by an immensely strong coil as it constricts its prey . Thanks to the dedication of zoological facilities and dedicated private hobbyists , this species is now bred with regularity and this medium to large sized python , reaching massive girths and lengths of 5-8 feet , has become quite popular as an exhibit attraction and even a pet .

Interestingly , this is one of the few animals who have benefited from monoculture and specifically , the palm oil industry . As palm fronds are trimmed and nuts are harvested , many end up on the ground which attracts rodents . Rodents attract snakes and as the large palm leaves are laid in the center of the rows to decay , they make great places for blood pythons to hide and wait for prey .

Our baby was captive bred and born ( hatched from an egg like all pythons ) on May 15 , 2021 by Rich Crowley , former President of the Chicago Herpetological Society and a dedicated Blood Python keeper . Rich authored the book “ A Passionate Journey with Short-tailed Pythons ” which has been a valuable resource for the WDC staff . Our beautiful boy has a snappy attitude right now but with consistent handling by the WDC staff , we expect to have a wonderful educational animal to share with the public when he ’ s a little older .

SATURDAY ZOOKEEPER ( 9-14Y ) Since 1997 , this program has provided opportunities for children to learn the complexities of caring for animals in captivity as well as putting those skills to use . Children learn proper handling , care and feeding , and biology of many animals as well as other aspects of captive animal management . Older students have an opportunity to develop their leadership skills while mentoring younger participants .

CODE DAYS DATES TIME R / NR 30940101-01 Sa Jun 18 - Jul 23 9:00 am - 10:30 am $ 180 /$ 225 www . LFParksandRec . com 35