Brisbane Woman Awakens to Find 8-Foot Python Coiled on Her Chest
BRISBANE, Australia — In a rare and startling incident Monday night, Rachel Bloor awoke to find an 8-foot carpet python coiled atop her chest in her second-story bedroom. Initially mistaking the weight for her dog, Bloor soon realized the smooth, muscular form beneath her hand was a large snake.
Carpet pythons, native to Australia, are nonvenomous constrictors known for their impressive length and strength. While not venomous, they can subdue prey through constriction, a fact that adds to the tension of Bloor’s encounter. Despite the potential danger, the woman maintained remarkable composure, instructing herself not to move as she assessed the situation.
Rather than immediately calling professional snake catchers, Bloor took matters into her own hands, carefully ushering the python out through a window. This decision reflects both her calm demeanor and familiarity with local wildlife. Carpet pythons are known to occasionally enter homes, especially in suburban areas near bushland, but such close contact is uncommon.
Authorities emphasize that while carpet pythons are generally not aggressive toward humans, residents should exercise caution. The Queensland Government’s wildlife guidelines advise contacting trained wildlife rescue services for assistance with snakes found indoors. The Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment also provides resources on safely managing encounters with native reptiles.
Incidents like this highlight the unique challenges of living in regions where human habitats intersect with native wildlife. Carpet pythons play a vital role in controlling pest populations, but their presence in homes can cause alarm. Experts from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Queensland recommend leaving snakes undisturbed if possible and seeking professional help to relocate them safely.
Bloor’s experience serves as a reminder of the coexistence between humans and wildlife in Australia’s diverse ecosystems. Her calm response and successful handling of the situation without harm to herself or the snake were praised by local wildlife officials. For residents in Brisbane and beyond, such encounters underscore the importance of awareness and preparedness when sharing environments with native species.
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