Reticulated Pythons, Malayopython reticulatus, are the longest snakes on the planet. They are power predators and do kill and eat humans on occasion. The snake pictured above is a captive animal in the collection of TC.
Note this post contains graphic photos of a human killed and eaten by a snake
Today, Friday 15 June 2018
Location of predation event.
A python swallowed a middle-aged woman (54 yrs) in Muna, Lohia Province, Southeast Sulawesi (see map). Based on information from the victim’s family, the incident began from the suspicion of the victim’s son who was worried about his mother who did not come home from the garden prayer session. Before his mother said goodbye to the garden prayer session participants yesterday afternoon at 18:35 hours. The son and neighbors searched the area near the garden and found a machete, sandals, and flashlight. Suspicions increasing when the grass around the Garden Lodge was pushed down to form a trail. After a search around gardens and shrubs by officers from the Muna Police, a python was eventually found. It appeared to be unable to move because of its swollen body. Citizens caught and carried the snake to the middle of the village. The missing woman was found in the snake’s belly. Early reports suggest the python was 8 m, however, we suspect the snake was closer to 6 meters.
A woman being removed from the python.
People observing the snake’s dissection.
These are a rather gruesome visual truth but it illustrates what our ancestors had to deal with for millions of years. They were prey for many large carnivores. It is a reminder in 2018 that humans are still part of nature and it is still possible to be killed by an apex predator. It definitely enriches our lives to know that bears, crocodiles, Komodo Dragons, big cats, and even giant snakes still kill us and eat us. This very act defines who humans really are in the end. We are ”meat” to the large hypercarnivores – still.
I am a retired science educator and naturalist. My research focuses on reptiles, mostly snakes. Also, I am interested in dogs and their evolution. Protecting the environment should be a high priority for everyone, particularly politicians. They seem to be in denial over the idea that the environment is our life support system - once it's damaged, it may not be fixable.
World Snake Day is July 16. The day is important to the conservation of snakes. Snakes live on every continent except Antarctica and can vary from the longest species, the reticulated python, to the smallest Barbados Threadsnake. Snakes try to avoid human contact. They consider humans predators. Venomous snakes (and many) use their venom to obtain food and only use it for defense when forced to. World Snake Day can help remove people's fears and illusions about snakes, and help them gain recognition as a marvelous adaptable apex species. World Snake Day can be used to educate and inform people about how to deal with snakes. Let's not mis this opportunity.
World Lizard Day
August 14th is World Lizard Day. It's the perfect time to show some love for these remarkable creatures that have been sharing our planet since the time of the dinosaurs. With over 6,000 known species, lizards come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns, and you can find them on every continent except Antarctica. But why should we celebrate lizards, you ask? Well, they're not just cool to observe in their natural habitats but also essential players in many ecosystems. Lizards help keep insect populations in check, which is vital to our ecosystems. So, let's give these amazing creatures the recognition they deserve on this special day! tems worldwide.
World Turtle Day
Turtles and tortoises have secured their enduring places as enduring symbols in folklore, fables, and popular culture, enchanting our imaginations with their representations of wisdom and resilience. Annually, on May 23, we gather with delight to observe World Turtle Day, a dedicated day that pays homage to these unwavering creatures. Turtles and tortoises, both esteemed members of the reptile family, inhabit an array of diverse environments worldwide, where they play pivotal roles within their ecosystems.
These extraordinary beings don’t merely excavate burrows that become abodes for various other species; they also provide a valuable service by assisting in maintaining the cleanliness of our beaches. Their diet includes the remains of deceased fish that wash ashore, making a substantial contribution to ecological equilibrium. This underscores the profound significance of safeguarding these gentle creatures.
World Turtle Day stands as an occasion specially designated to celebrate and protect both of these remarkable creatures. Its origins can be traced back to 2002 when American Tortoise Rescue introduced this meaningful event. It casts a spotlight on the myriad challenges that turtles and tortoises confront due to human intervention and environmental hazards. On this special day, educational institutions, rescue centers, and nature enthusiasts unite to deepen their understanding of these creatures and pledge unwavering commitments to their preservation.
Here are some impactful ways in which you can actively participate in the endeavor to safeguard these exceptional animals: Adopt a Turtle or Tortoise: Contemplate adopting a turtle or tortoise from a rescue shelter. These low-maintenance creatures make ideal companions, especially for families with young children.
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