Could a Reticulated Python handle a Black Bear, or a Leopard?
Reticulated pythons tie with the green anaconda as the longest snake in the world at up to 30 feet (though the anaconda is much heavier). They are certainly strong enough to constrict and kill a black bear or leopard, but in order to do so they would have to take these animals by surprise. If the bear or leopard saw the snake coming, it could defend itself with its teeth and claws – the snake would be at a disadvantage in this case. A reticulated python would be unlikely to attack such animals anyway, since unless you’re talking about young animals they would be too large for the snake to swallow, and it wouldn’t waste its time and energy trying to kill them. If it felt threatened and wanted to defend itself, it would bite and let go, not attempt to constrict. And for Queen Tease – pythons are not venomous!
