Programming Python, Second Edition

Colophon

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The animal featured on the cover of Programming Python, Second Edition is an African rock python, one of approximately 18 species of python. Pythons are nonvenomous constrictor snakes that live in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and some Pacific Islands. Pythons live mainly on the ground, but they are also excellent swimmers and climbers. Both male and female pythons retain vestiges of their ancestral hind legs. The male python uses these vestiges, or spurs, when courting a female. The python kills its prey by suffocation. While the snake’s sharp teeth grip and hold the prey in place, the python’s long body coils around its victim’s chest, constricting tighter each time it breathes out. They feed primarily on mammals and birds. Python attacks on humans are extremely rare.

Emily Quill was the production editor for Programming Python, Second Edition. Clairemarie Fisher O’Leary, Nicole Arigo, and Emily Quill copyedited the book. Matt Hutchinson, Colleen Gorman, Rachel Wheeler, Mary Sheehan, and Jane Ellin performed quality control reviews. Gabe Weiss, Lucy Muellner, Deborah Smith, Molly Shangraw, Matt Hutchinson, and Mary Sheehan provided production assistance. Nancy Crumpton wrote the index.

Edie Freedman designed the cover ...