Children use black-headed python for game at Woorabinda

Queensland’s environment department has confirmed it’s investigating a viral video which shows children using a giant python as a skipping rope and warned fines of more than $12,000 could apply. VIDEO, LATEST.

A shocking, now viral video, which shows several children using a dead snake as a skipping rope is under investigation.

It comes after the footage of several children from Woorabinda, two hours from Rockhampton, attracted hundreds of thousands of views on social media.

“Show me that, show me what it is,” a woman can be heard saying in the clip

“It’s a black-headed python,” replies one of the boys.

A Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation spokesperson condemned the behaviour.

“We ask all Queenslanders to treat animals with respect, whether they are alive or dead,” they said.

Several children from Woorabinda were filmed using a dead snake as a skipping rope at night

“We condemn this inappropriate behaviour and will investigate the incident.”

“The maximum fine for a person found guilty of killing or injuring a black-headed python is $12,615.”

They also encouraged residents to alert authorities if they become aware of cruelty to native animals.

“The killing or injuring of native animals should be reported to the Department of the Environment, Science, Tourism and Innovation or the RSPCA.”

“Each report is investigated.

“Snakes usually prefer to retreat when disturbed, but if they feel threatened, they can become defensive.
“Most snake bites occur when people try to catch or kill the animals.”

The maximum fine for a person found guilty of killing or injuring a black-headed python is $12,615.”. Picture: Jessica Jarred

They also recommended that people leave the animals alone call a snake catcher if they have an encounter in their homes.

Black-headed pythons are a non-venomous species that kill their prey using constriction.
They are known to posture viciously with a headbutt style bite where they lunge their heads forward, but are unlikely to bother humans.
They are native to northern Australia, with territory stretching as far south as Gladstone all the way up to the Northern Territory and Western Australia.