Two giant pythons captured in Baling, one after swallowing goat

BALING: The Civil Defence Force here captured two giant pythons over two consecutive days, including one that had swallowed a goat whole.

Baling Civil Defence officer Mohd Faizol Ab Aziz said the first python, nearly 10 metres long and weighing 45kg, was found in front of the Ibu dan Anak Rural Clinic in Kampung Teluk Teduri the day before yesterday.

He said the team received a call about the reptile at 11.58pm and rushed to the scene.

"Upon arrival, we found the reticulated python was still there. It was quite aggressive, making the capture challenging due to its size.

"The team successfully captured the python and brought it to the Civil Defence office for temporary safekeeping," he said when contacted today.

In a separate incident in Kampung Rambong, Pulai, yesterday, Faizol said his team captured a six-metre, 35kg python that had just swallowed a goat.

He said the team received a public call at 3.16pm, with two personnel led by Corporal (PA) Muhamad Imran Hashim deployed to the location at 3.33pm.

"The python was successfully captured through swift, efficient and controlled action.

"The operation ended at 4pm without injuries to the public or our personnel," he said.

Faizol said both pythons would be handed over to the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) for further action.

He advised the public to remain vigilant near bushes, drains, rivers, orchards and other potential reptile habitats.

"Changes in weather, temperature and the surrounding environment can cause reptiles to venture out of their natural habitats in search of food or shelter.

"If a reptile is spotted, do not approach, disturb or attempt to capture it. Prioritise your safety and contact Civil Defence for assistance," he said.