You may be wondering how Squatter got his name, well, it’s quite simple! He and his owner were found squatting in someone’s house. Squatter was confiscated by authorities, and when his owner could no longer care for him, he made his way to Popcorn Park.

After acclimating to his new home and getting to know our keepers, Squatter has become one of our most impressive Education Ambassadors.

As an ambassador, Squatter travels to schools, assemblies, and makes appearances at our Education Pavilion to teach others about responsible pet ownership while sharing incredible facts about his species. It’s quite a sight to see him curl around the presenter and calmly observe the crowd!

Though Squatter was found right here in New Jersey, Burmese pythons are native to Southeast Asia. While Squatter is already an impressive 35 pounds, males of his species can weigh up to 100 pounds, and females can reach up to 200 pounds, making them one of the largest snake species in the world.

Squatter is a constrictor, meaning he subdues his prey by wrapping his body around it and tightening with each breath the prey takes until it can no longer move. He then swallows his meal whole, sometimes consuming prey up to three times the size of the largest part of his body! This differs from venomous snakes, which inject venom into their prey before eating.

Burmese pythons like Squatter are considered an invasive species in Florida due to irresponsible releases by pet owners. These snakes have had a serious impact on local ecosystems, preying on native wildlife and disrupting natural balances. Efforts are ongoing to remove invasive pythons from the wild to help protect native and endangered species.

Help support our impressive snake Squatter and his important role in our education programs, teaching others about responsible pet ownership and the incredible world of reptiles!

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