In a bizarre incident in Brisbane, Australia, Rachel Bloor woke up in the middle of the night to find a 2.5-meter carpet python curled up on her chest, but her quick thinking and calm approach prevented any harm. The non-venomous snake was safely guided out of the window after Bloor carefully extricated herself from under the covers.
The event occurred late on Monday evening when Bloor, initially thinking the weight on her stomach was her labradoodle, felt something move and realized it was a snake. Her husband, upon switching on the light, confirmed the presence of the python and advised her not to move, leading to a tense but controlled situation. Bloor’s first concern was for her dogs, which were promptly removed from the bedroom to avoid any potential conflict.
Growing up on acreage, Bloor was familiar with snakes and remained unfazed by the encounter. She described the python as calm, likely because she herself stayed composed, adhering to the adage that snakes mirror human emotions. In contrast, she admitted that a cane toad would have terrified her, highlighting her specific aversion to the invasive species.
Carpet pythons are common constrictors in coastal Australia, typically feeding on small animals like birds. Bloor suspects the snake slithered up to the second storey of her home, pushed open a plantation shutter, and entered through the window. Part of its tail was still outside, making it easier for her to gently feed it back out once she was free.
This incident coincides with Australia’s snake season, as explained by experts. With breeding season over and eggs hatching, snake activity has increased, particularly in urban areas where new developments encroach on natural habitats. Snake catcher Kurt Whyte noted that backyards often provide ideal habitats, and gaps in structures can serve as entry points for reptiles.
Authorities advise that if a snake is encountered, people should not panic, attempt to harm it, or catch it themselves. Instead, they should keep a safe distance, monitor its location, and contact a professional snake catcher. This advice is crucial as interfering with snakes can lead to bites, with recent reports indicating a rise in such incidents due to human intervention.
The safe resolution of Bloor’s encounter underscores the importance of coexistence with wildlife in Australia. As urban expansion continues, such interactions may become more frequent, necessitating public awareness and proper handling protocols. Bloor’s story serves as a reminder that with calm and appropriate actions, even startling wildlife encounters can end without injury.
In summary, Rachel Bloor’s midnight visitor was a harmless reminder of Australia’s rich biodiversity, handled with poise that prevented any mishap. The event, widely reported within the last 24 hours, highlights ongoing issues of human-wildlife interaction in changing environments.
