Why Python Regius?

[reno-cg]

Obviously I'm not asking whether I should get one (if this was the context of the question asked, the more appropriate question would be "why not?"). In fact I own 2 ball pythons already and have big expansion plans for the future. The question I'm actually asking is, "does anybody know why they are named Python Regius? Or Royal Pythons?"

[JohnnyBoyy128]

cleopatra (idk how to spell her name) haha was said to have worn a ball python around her wrist or neck when she was alive, giving them the name royal python, weird huh? haha

[king216]

I read in this ball python book that they are called royal pythons because certain tribes worship them & consider them a sacred animal

[reno-cg]

Really? Cleopatra!? Very cool. I definitely agree with the fact that tribes would worship them. Snakes have been worshipped as gods for centuries before western culture (dare I say Christianity) made them into an ominous monster or devil (I don't think this image is too prevalent in today's society though). And this makes perfect sense. I guess it also makes sense that Cleopatra wore a ball python because in her time the Egyptians were deists and would worship snakes and crocodiles among other animals. But very neat nonetheless. Thanks

[king216]

Wow, we learn somethin new everyday

[blackcrystal22]

Python regius is the scientific name.

There aren't really reasons for scientific names.. they're just latin names given to all species. Some names have more reasoning than others.

[BiggBaddWolf]

Python Regius is indeed the Latin name, actually they are Royal Pythons, and the Ball Python came from their tendancy to curl into a ball whenever they become frightened!!

[stevepoppers]

Would Egypt have been humid enough for them?

[Vilenica]

Yes and ball pythons coil into a ball to defend themselves from their mortal enemy the king Cobra venom which they are somewhat immune to. They take a bite from the king, coil into a ball and thus cant be eaten by the cobra (snake eater) fight off the poison and bounce back. What a fascinating animal. You gotta love your balls!!!

[stevepoppers]

Immune to COBRA VENOM!?