358 



LOWER VERTEBRATES. 



latus has four upper and several lower labials similarly developed. P. molurus has 

 its light, greyish-brown body ornamented with a dorsal row of large square spots, 

 below which are two lateral rows. The top of the head is ornamented with a lance- 

 shaped blotch, along each side of which lie a pair of dark brown lines, which pass 

 from the nosti-ils, through the eye, to the sides of the head, where each meets a simi- 

 lar streak from the lower jaw. 



Python regia, the royal rock-snake, having the four anterior upper labials pitted, 



Fig. 211. — Python sebce, fetich-snake. 



and the lower labials broad and four in number, inhabits western Africa. It is of a 

 dark brown color, almost black, and has a series of light spots along the middle of the 

 back, and two more along the sides, beneath, the lips and chin are white. This python 

 is quite often seen in menageries and traveling shows. P. natalensis, the E"atal rock- 

 snake, is regarded with respect by the natives, believing that it has some mystic influ- 

 ence over their destinies. It lives on small quadrupeds, remaining quite torpid for 

 some time after its meal. At this time it is quite easily disposed of. P. sebm is a 



