Authorities in Queensland, Australia, are investigating a potential case of animal cruelty after a video surfaced showing children using a python as a jump rope. While the footage has since been removed, images from the incident continue to circulate online.
According to 7 News Australia, the video was filmed in Woorabinda and is currently being reviewed by Queensland’s Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
The snake involved has been identified as a black-headed python, a non-venomous species that can grow up to six feet long. Reports indicate that the children were seen laughing as they swung the reptile, though it remains unclear whether the snake was already dead before the act or if it was killed during the incident.
Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers, a wildlife relocation service, condemned the act, stating that an adult appeared to be encouraging the children. The organization urged parents to teach their kids to respect wildlife, warning that similar cases of snake mistreatment are on the rise.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident.
