A resident of Mareeba, a town near Cairns, Australia, made a startling discovery while locking up his home on the evening of March 12, 2024. The local father heard unusual noises in his yard and, upon investigation, encountered an enormous python attempting to access his roof. This unexpected encounter left him both surprised and concerned.
The python, identified as a scrub python, measured an impressive 5.2 metres in length and weighed approximately 26.4 kg. Its size and presence resembled that of a small dinosaur, prompting the homeowner to describe it as “like an anaconda” when speaking to Jay Everdeen from Close Encounters Reptile Removal shortly after the discovery. Everdeen, who arrived expecting a routine call-out, was taken aback by the sheer size of the reptile.
Upon arrival, Everdeen noted, “When I saw him, I was like, ‘oh geez, this is big’.” His experience as a seasoned reptile handler did not fully prepare him for the immense strength of the snake. He and his 12-year-old daughter engaged in a wrestling match with the non-venomous python for nearly an hour. “He’s just got that much power, and that’s why it took an hour,” Everdeen explained, emphasizing the risks involved in handling such large snakes.
Despite the challenges, the pair successfully secured the massive serpent, but not without needing a beach towel to assist with transporting it due to its weight. After managing to bag the python, Everdeen and his children showcased their impressive catch to their neighbours, adding to the excitement of the unusual event.
The following day, Everdeen released the python back into the bush, reinforcing a positive perspective on wildlife. “A good snake is a beautiful snake to see in the wild,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of respecting and preserving these creatures in their natural habitats.
This incident not only underscores the unique wildlife encounters that can occur in Australia but also serves as a reminder of the importance of professional assistance when dealing with large reptiles. Everdeen’s encounter with the python reflects the ongoing relationship between humans and the diverse fauna found in the region.
