A 13-year-old Brazilian rainbow python named Ronaldo has given birth to 14 cubs after living alone in captivity for nearly a decade. The python, belonging to the Epicrates cenchria species, had not had contact with any others of its kind for at least nine years before being rescued by an animal welfare organization. Initially believed to be male by a vet, Ronaldo was discovered to be pregnant by a student during a routine inspection.
This virgin birth is only the third recorded in the Brazilian rainbow python species. Virgin parthenogenesis, a form of asexual reproduction, is rare but has been seen in various animals living in captivity, including birds, sharks, lizards, snakes, and crocodiles. In parthenogenesis, the egg matures without fertilization, resulting in offspring that are clones of their mothers with slightly different characteristics.
Experts are unsure of the mechanism that prompted Ronaldo’s parturition, but the event has fascinated the staff at Portsmouth City College. This miraculous birth highlights the complexity and wonders of nature and reminds us of the mysteries that still exist in the animal kingdom. The baby snakes are currently being checked for gender and will be relocated to a new enclosure when they are old enough.