Pet python on the loose in Somerville The snake is a ball python — a common pet snake that is docile and not dangerous, according to an animal control officer.

Ball pythons were long assumed to be solitary, but scientists discovered the snakes in captivity prefer each others’ company when given the chance to live socially.

What is a ball python? And why isn't this 'nice cousin' to the Burmese hunted during the Florida Python Challenge? We explain the details.