Rescuers remove mating pythons from pipes

PHUKET: Rescue workers yesterday removed two four-meter long pythons found mating behind a house in Mai Khao.

“Locals reported the incident to us about 9:45am. When we arrived, they were hiding in the cement drainpipe behind the house,” said Chokdee Inthaklab of the Mai Khao Administrative Organization (OrBorTor).

“The drainpipe is very deep, so we had to pry them out with a long stick. As they were both quite massive, it about took two hours to bag them.”

The male python weighed about 30kgs and the female about 20kgs.

“We believe that the two came out of the forest looking for a place to breed. Normally, snakes are more aggressive during breeding, but luckily no one was hurt,” Mr Chokdee said.

The two pythons were later released into the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary in Thalang.

Mr Chokdee advised people to be careful during the rainy season, as many dangerous animals tend to come out of the forest during this time.

“Secure your doors and windows, especially if you live near a forest, and be extra attentive to your children,” Mr Chokdee said. “If you come across a dangerous animal, do not try to touch or catch it, and call rescue workers immediately.”

The Mai Khao OrBorTor can be reached at 076-348201 during office hours. The Kusoldharm Foundation can be reached 24 hours a day at 076-246599 or 076-621339. It is recommended that callers be able to speak some Thai.

— Winai Sarot