Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary hospital rescues rare snake
KYALAMI – Dr Karin Lourens said that these Southern African pythons were protected in South Africa (Threatened or Protected Species [TOPS]) and were listed as a vulnerable species.
The Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital rescued one of Southern Africa’s vulnerable reptile species after it was brought to them with a large mass/growth near the tip of its tail.
The Southern African python, which has been named Hlengiwe meaning ‘rescued’, was extremely dehydrated, very weak and thin
when she arrived.
The doctors stabilised her and did a CT scan a few days later to see how invasive the growth was.
Dr Karin Lourens of the hospital said the python was found and rescued by snake rescuer Arthur Roden near Marble Hall.
“As a permitted snake rescuer, Arthur often rescues snakes in that area – he is well known for his love of snakes,” she added.
Lourens said the python was getting stronger every day.
Explaining the rarity of this species of snake, Lourens said the Southern African python was protected in South Africa and was listed as vulnerable, therefore, these type of snakes should not be captured or killed.
Lourens stressed how important people’s contributions were to the hospital. “To help us help wildlife, people can donate to our facility.
“We are a non-profit organisation and we treat small and medium indigenous wildlife at no charge.”
Details: To find out more, follow the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital on social media or visit their website
