Imagine waking up to the unsettling sensation of something heavy on your chest... only to discover it's a two-and-a-half-meter carpet python! This was the reality for Queensland resident Rachel Bloor, who experienced a truly unforgettable start to her day. But this is just the beginning of a story that highlights the increasing interaction between humans and snakes.
Ms. Bloor initially mistook the weight on her for her labradoodle, but a subtle movement of her hand quickly revealed the truth. Her husband's calm, yet alarming, words, "Babe, don't move. There's about a two-and-a-half-meter carpet python on top of you," instantly triggered panic. Thankfully, the dogs were safely removed, and Ms. Bloor, with her husband's guidance, carefully maneuvered herself out from under the covers. She then proceeded to guide the snake out of the window. She believes the snake entered her second-story bedroom, climbed through the window, and settled on her bed.
Interestingly, Ms. Bloor, who grew up on a rural property, wasn't overly frightened by the snake. She was just relieved it wasn't a toad!
But here's where it gets controversial... Snake activity is on the rise, particularly during breeding season. Ipswich-based snake catcher Kurt Whyte notes that warmer weather and the hatching of eggs are contributing to more sightings. While snake populations may not be exploding, the increasing number of human encounters is linked to new housing developments encroaching on snake habitats. Mr. Whyte points out that our backyards now offer the perfect environment for snakes, and even gaps in garage doors can serve as easy entry points.
What should you do if you encounter a snake? The advice is clear: Don't panic, don't try to hurt it, and, most importantly, don't attempt to catch it yourself. Instead, keep an eye on the snake and call a professional snake catcher. The same advice applies to snake eggs.
This brings us to a compelling story from Shane Hancock, owner of The Llama Farm in Ipswich. His partner accidentally disturbed a carpet python incubating 16 eggs while cutting tall grass. The snake, injured by the whipper snipper, retreated to a sandstone retaining wall, exposing the eggs. Thankfully, the eggs were unharmed. A reptile rescue group was called, and the eggs were safely collected and taken for incubation. The baby snakes are planned to be released back onto the farm. Sadly, the mother snake had to be euthanized due to her injuries.
Tiarnah Kingaby, one of the snake catchers involved, noted the eggs were in excellent condition and had a high chance of survival. She emphasized that this is the time of year when mother snakes are often found nesting in long grass or vegetation. She also strongly warns against people attempting to handle or move snakes themselves.
And this is the part most people miss... The increasing number of snake bites is directly linked to people interfering with snakes. Both Ms. Kingaby and Mr. Whyte stress the importance of calling professionals for any snake-related issues.
What do you think? Have you ever had a close encounter with a snake? Do you agree with the advice to always call a professional? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
