A Central African rock python of at least 2,5m was rescued on a small holding outside Bronkhorstspruit along the Groblersdal road on September 26.
According to Amedie Bull, an accredited snake catcher, the reptile was in poor shape.
“He had burn wounds on his tail and he was dehydrated. The python was quite aggressive and clearly in distress which is a sign of trauma,” said Bull.
He believes the animal sustained the burns during a veld fire at least three weeks ago. The python was traumatised by the heat and its injuries.
Bull’s assistant in the rescue mission, Cecilia Knox, said this was the first time in about 30 years a Central African rock python was spotted in that area.
“I want to believe the animal went to the house to seek help. He probably went there for water,” she explained.
Bull and Knox concurred that the python was extremely thirsty.
“He drank a lot of water during the night. We also gave him water to bathe,” said Knox.
She took the reptile to a rehabilitation centre in Bapsfontein the next day where it was a matter of touch and go throughout the next day or two.
This was the first time Knox transported a snake on her own.
“It was a watershed moment for me,” said Knox.
“Although I am a qualified animal welfare inspector, I am absolutely terrified of snakes.
“It was only a day or two later that the vet said the animal might pull through,” said Knox.
Bronkhorstspruit has an active snake rescue group with a Facebook page named BHS Snake Removals.
Follow this page for handy hints on what to do when you come across a snake during the coming snake season.
