A veterinarian performed cardiac massage on the reptile and then the team warmed the snake all night
With unwavering dedication to conservation, a python ensnared in electric clear-vu fencing at a secret conservation site was successfully freed and given CPR.
In a remarkable display of teamwork and quick thinking, security officers, technicians, Durban snake rescuer Nick Evans, and veterinarian Dr Carla Goede came together last week to rescue the python that was entangled in the electric fence while trying to squeeze through.
Evans said the electric fence triggered the alarm, and security responded. The first officer on the scene ran back into the bush to get some sticks and tried wedging the electric cables off the python until help arrived.
“Clever thinking,” Evans remarked.
He said more security officers arrived, but not much could be done while the electric fence was on. This prompted a call for technicians, who rushed to help.
“Meanwhile, Carla and I had been called, and were on our way, desperately hoping not to arrive to a dead python. Electric fences frequently kill pythons,” Evans said.
“When we arrived, we had no rescue work to do. The technicians had arrived promptly, switched the fence off, and security managed to untangle the python.”
Evans said it was astonishing how these snakes manage to squeeze through clear-vu fences. He also said it was remarkable how security managed to pull that off.
“At first, we were delighted with this good news. However, we then saw the state of the python; he was lifeless,” Evans said.
“Carla, being a vet, immediately started feeling for a heartbeat. It had one, but it was very faint. She started rubbing and massaging it, just about giving the poor python CPR.
“Once the heart rate improved slightly, we put it in a box and carried it to the car.”
Evans said Goede cradled the python on her lap as she did with the last python they had entangled in a fence.
She provided warmth for the snake. The car heater was also on for the drive home, but the python remained still.
In the morning, they hoped for good news.
“First thing the next morning, we woke up and went to open the box, which we had stuck a heating pad against. To our relief and joy, the python was alive! Its tongue was flickering, and it was moving. What a massive relief!” Evans exclaimed.
In the days that followed, they decided the python was fit for release and set it free.
“We cannot thank the security and technicians enough for what they did for this snake. If they hadn’t acted so fast, this python would certainly have died. These guys care so much about the pythons in this area and have rescued a few,” Evans said.
“They’re not full-time, professional snake-catchers. They’ve had some training, had quite a bit of experience now, but the rest is dedication and bravery.”