Thieves Steal Deadly Snake in Sydney

[CharlieJ]

Thieves Steal Deadly Snake in Sydney
Source: TheAge.com
October 18, 2006 - 11:14AM

Photo courtesy of VenomousReptiles.org

Thieves who escaped with four snakes from a Sydney wildlife park have been warned to take care, because they stole one of the world's most venomous species. Experts say one bite from the Collett's snake, taken from the Featherdale Wildlife Park at Doonside in Sydney's west, could be fatal.

Thieves slipped into the reptile enclosure at the park about 1.30am (AEST) on Wednesday, police said. Security guards found the roller shutter to the reptile house kicked in and at least four snakes taken from their enclosures. Wildlife park curator Chad Staples said a two metre-long, red and black Collett's snake was missing. "This species is ranked the 18th most venomous snake in the world," he said. "People should use extreme caution and should not approach or handle this species if found. A bite from a Collett's snake, apart from being potentially fatal, is known for being extremely painful and can cause long-term illness."

Two brown Arafura file snakes and a water python, both non-venomous, have also been stolen, Mr Staples said. The Arafura file, a water snake, is very difficult to look after. "This is an extremely bad time of year for the snake to be removed from its environment as it does not handle stress well and any change in temperature, water quality or food will be detrimental to the snake's health, maybe even fatal," Mr Staples said.

The water python, brown on top with a bright yellow underbelly, is also a sensitive breed. Mr. Staples said it appeared the thieves had prior knowledge of the reptile exhibits and were able to forcibly enter and leave the building quickly. The curator has appealed for the return of the snakes, saying there would be no questions asked. "If anyone sees these snakes, please use extreme caution and contact the police immediately," he said.

None of these species are endemic to the Sydney region.

[fire_kat]

wow...I never have figured out why people STEAL anything.If you want it,buy it and if you can't afford to buy it then wait until you can,and if it is illegal or not for sale than there is usually a reason the general public shouldn't own it.I hope the snakes are returned or if not i hope they know how to safely care for the snakes(for the benefit of the snakes).and I hope they are caught and punished for causing undo stress along with the breaking in and the theft

[evie]

Reptile thefts in Australia are really getting beyond a joke, it is starting to seem like everytime i look online there is a report of another reptile theft (and that's just the ones that get media coverage.)

A seriously wonder if these theives have any idea what they are doing considering that none of the species that were stolen were worth any considerable amount of money in the grand scheme of things... considering these animals are off license, they would be lucky to get $500 for all 4 of them and even if they managed to get the animals on license i think they would still be doing well to get $1000, seems like such a huge risk for such little return.

Sadly, it just goes to show why us herpers here have to be so careful who we let into our houses to see our collections... i know i never want to come home to find everything gone.

Hopefully these animals will be returned in good health.

Cheers,
Evie

[All_American]

No one said theives were smart! If they were they would have a good paying job and not being a low life.... Carma will come there way. Keep an eye out for a death from snake bite in the Obituaries.

Originally Posted by evie

Reptile thefts in Australia are really getting beyond a joke, it is starting to seem like everytime i look online there is a report of another reptile theft (and that's just the ones that get media coverage.)

A seriously wonder if these theives have any idea what they are doing considering that none of the species that were stolen were worth any considerable amount of money in the grand scheme of things... considering these animals are off license, they would be lucky to get $500 for all 4 of them and even if they managed to get the animals on license i think they would still be doing well to get $1000, seems like such a huge risk for such little return.

Sadly, it just goes to show why us herpers here have to be so careful who we let into our houses to see our collections... i know i never want to come home to find everything gone.

Hopefully these animals will be returned in good health.

Cheers,
Evie

[Brandon28]

Is it wrong of me to hope that the theif gets bitten?