In one year, Bangkok firemen will respond to between 30,000-35,000 snake calls. About 70% of these calls will be for removing reticulated pythons. The number of reticulated pythons in Bangkok is dramatic.
While it seems strange that reticulated pythons are doing well in Bangkok, it isn’t that surprising. Bangkok is built on a wetland, which is the perfect habitat for reticulated pythons. As people built the city of Bangkok, the pythons adapted well. Some of the buildings make perfect spots for pythons to attack their prey, digest their meals or lay their eggs.
People also produce rubbish, which attracts rats, and rats make a good snack for reticulated pythons. Pythons are considered to be diet generalists, meaning that they will eat different mammals and birds. This flexibility in their diet gives them an advantage over other species of snakes that may have more specific tastes. Also, they don't move around a lot so it is easy for them to stay hidden. Usually people spot snakes when they are on the move, either crossing roads or pathways.
