Prince William and Harry in fits holding an 8ft python

The young royals got up close and personal with the creature during their tour of South Africa

Young royals princes William and Harry got up and close and personal with a giant python during their official tour of South Africa yesterday.

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The playful pair were pictured laughing and joking with each other, as the enormous reptile was placed over their shoulders for a photo opportunity at the Mokolodi Nature Reserve in Botswana.

And Harry was in stitches when he was given the task of holding the snake's head, teasing his older brother by inching it towards him.

‘Don't put it in my face,' terrified Will retorted.

The pair spent time talking to staff at the centre, visiting other animals - including a cheetah -and watching traditional tribal dancers laid for the day.

The terrible twosome were even told they'll have a baby snake named after each of them, and were asked to choose which one they would like as their namesake. 

'You can have the common house snake. It's the same colour as your hair,' Will joked to Harry.

‘Big brother chooses the python, little brother gets the common brown.'

'Mine will bite you,' Harry hilariously hit back.

The royal brothers are expected to complete their six-day tour of the country next week, before taking some time off from royal duties to watch the World Cup. 

Prince Harry's girlfriend Chelsy Davy is thought to be hosting a series of celebration parties, and has invited Harry, William,and Kate Middleton to join in the fun. 

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