Tourist's death-defying stunt by Aussie river shocks locals – Here's the one thing you should never attempt!'
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Australia is renowned for its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and, let's not forget, its fair share of dangers – especially when it comes to the slithering kind. A recent incident involving a Canadian tourist has sparked a wave of concern and a stern warning from wildlife experts: never attempt to handle Australian snakes.
Josiah Hein, a Canadian visitor who has been documenting his travels on social media, found himself in hot water with Australians after a video surfaced of him trying to grab a 'massive snake' by the Brisbane river. Hein, who has gained a following for his travel updates and affection for Australian quirks, saw his popularity take a hit when he was seen lunging at a 'humongous' coastal carpet python.
The video, which shows Hein making several attempts to pick up the snake while being filmed by another man, has drawn criticism from both locals and wildlife professionals. The man filming can be heard advising Hein to 'be ready' for a potential strike from the reptile, which, fortunately, managed to escape unharmed.
Local experts, including Stuart McKenzie from Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers, have condemned the actions shown in the video. Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, McKenzie emphasized that interfering with snakes is never condoned and that only individuals with the appropriate licensing should handle or relocate them due to the high risk of injury to both the person and the snake.
The message from experts is clear: 'Always admire snakes from a distance.' This advice is particularly pertinent as Australia enters snake season, a time when sightings increase dramatically. Courtenay Brown, a Queensland-based snake catcher and rescuer, reported a 'crazy influx' of snake encounters, attributing the early activity to warmer-than-usual weather in August.
While coastal carpet pythons, like the one Hein attempted to handle, are common in Queensland and can be seen throughout the year, the recent period has also seen an uptick in sightings of red-bellied black snakes. Brown, echoing McKenzie's sentiments, urged people to refrain from touching snakes and to maintain a safe distance, noting that most snakes will simply wander off on their own.
The incident has sparked a strong reaction from the Australian public, with many taking to social media to express their disapproval. Comments ranged from educational to outright dismay, with one user stating, 'Dude, no no no. Don’t touch snakes, especially in Australia,' and another reminding everyone that 'No. 1 rule... don't mess with nature! Why would you even do that?'
The takeaway from this event is a vital one for both tourists and locals alike: Australia's wildlife is to be respected and observed from a safe distance. Interfering with animals, particularly those as potentially dangerous as snakes, is not only reckless but can also have severe consequences.
For our readers at the Seniors Discount Club, we urge you to stay informed about the wildlife in your area and to educate your visiting friends and family about the importance of respecting our native creatures. If you encounter a snake, keep calm, keep your distance, and contact a professional if it poses a threat to your safety.
Have you had any close encounters with Australia's wildlife that you'd like to share? Or perhaps some advice for fellow seniors on how to deal with unexpected visitors of the reptilian kind? Let us know in the comments below, and stay safe as you enjoy all the weird and wonderful aspects of Australia's great outdoors.
Josiah Hein, a Canadian visitor who has been documenting his travels on social media, found himself in hot water with Australians after a video surfaced of him trying to grab a 'massive snake' by the Brisbane river. Hein, who has gained a following for his travel updates and affection for Australian quirks, saw his popularity take a hit when he was seen lunging at a 'humongous' coastal carpet python.
Canadian man Josiah Hein attempted to do something dangerous to a snake. Credit: @josiahhein / TikTok
The video, which shows Hein making several attempts to pick up the snake while being filmed by another man, has drawn criticism from both locals and wildlife professionals. The man filming can be heard advising Hein to 'be ready' for a potential strike from the reptile, which, fortunately, managed to escape unharmed.
Local experts, including Stuart McKenzie from Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers, have condemned the actions shown in the video. Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, McKenzie emphasized that interfering with snakes is never condoned and that only individuals with the appropriate licensing should handle or relocate them due to the high risk of injury to both the person and the snake.
The message from experts is clear: 'Always admire snakes from a distance.' This advice is particularly pertinent as Australia enters snake season, a time when sightings increase dramatically. Courtenay Brown, a Queensland-based snake catcher and rescuer, reported a 'crazy influx' of snake encounters, attributing the early activity to warmer-than-usual weather in August.
While coastal carpet pythons, like the one Hein attempted to handle, are common in Queensland and can be seen throughout the year, the recent period has also seen an uptick in sightings of red-bellied black snakes. Brown, echoing McKenzie's sentiments, urged people to refrain from touching snakes and to maintain a safe distance, noting that most snakes will simply wander off on their own.
The incident has sparked a strong reaction from the Australian public, with many taking to social media to express their disapproval. Comments ranged from educational to outright dismay, with one user stating, 'Dude, no no no. Don’t touch snakes, especially in Australia,' and another reminding everyone that 'No. 1 rule... don't mess with nature! Why would you even do that?'
The takeaway from this event is a vital one for both tourists and locals alike: Australia's wildlife is to be respected and observed from a safe distance. Interfering with animals, particularly those as potentially dangerous as snakes, is not only reckless but can also have severe consequences.
For our readers at the Seniors Discount Club, we urge you to stay informed about the wildlife in your area and to educate your visiting friends and family about the importance of respecting our native creatures. If you encounter a snake, keep calm, keep your distance, and contact a professional if it poses a threat to your safety.
Have you had any close encounters with Australia's wildlife that you'd like to share? Or perhaps some advice for fellow seniors on how to deal with unexpected visitors of the reptilian kind? Let us know in the comments below, and stay safe as you enjoy all the weird and wonderful aspects of Australia's great outdoors.
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