African burrowing python  (Calabaria reinhardtii)

Little information is available on the threats faced by African burrowing pythons, though rainforest destruction is thought to threaten snake communities in parts of its range, such as in southern Nigeria (9). Although this species is not common as a pet, most specimens in the pet trade are wild-caught, and few people have yet to successfully breed African burrowing pythons in captivity (3) (5) (6). If demand for this species increases, collection for the pet trade may become a concern in the future.

Although not currently considered at risk of extinction, the African burrowing python is listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, meaning that international trade in the species should be carefully monitored and controlled (1). The African burrowing python occurs in some protected areas in West Africa, such as the Cross River National Park and the Upper Orashi Forest Reserve in southern Nigeria (10), and the species would benefit from further research into its behaviour, ecology and status in the wild, in order to better inform conservation measures and to warn of any population declines.