Snakes have a reputation for being quick to strike, but several species rarely live up to that image. Breeders who work with these animals select for calm temperaments, and many of the snakes kept as pets today are far less defensive than their wild relatives.

Experts believe the snakes may be dispersing from the Everglades as their population grows, using connected waterways as highways. While not considered an overwhelming threat to humans, pythons can prey on pets like cats and small dogs. Ten days before ...