The reticulated python sometimes lies in wait for its prey in a tree, lunging at an animal when it passes within reach, and clamping it in its long, sharp teeth. It then coils itself around the animal, and by tightening its hold, slowly suffocates the victim or causes its blood vessels to burst. The python has an awesome capacity for swallowing large meals — one captive specimen swallowed a 77-lb. goat in the space of an hour. After feeding, a python may not eat again for weeks, or even months.