A recent viral video featuring a Gold Coast man and his pet snake catching waves may have brought them fame, but it has also landed him in trouble with Australian wildlife authorities.
Higor Fiuza and his bredli carpet python, Shiva, became local sensations when footage of their surfing adventure spread across the internet. However, this newfound fame alerted wildlife protection officers who suspected that the man had breached regulations governing the possession of such animals.
According to Queensland’s Department of Environment and Science, Mr. Fiuza not only put Shiva at risk but also violated his permit to keep the snake by taking her into a public place. As a consequence, he has been slapped with a fine of A$2,322 (£1,207; $1,495).
Wildlife officer Jonathan McDonald emphasized the potential harm caused by taking native pets out in public. He explained that it can subject them to “unnecessary stress” and provoke “unpredictable behavior” in the animals. He particularly pointed out that snakes, being cold-blooded creatures, generally avoid water and that Shiva would have found the ocean water quite cold. McDonald also noted that sea snakes are the only snakes that belong in the ocean.
Apart from concerns about the snake’s welfare, the incident raised questions about public safety and the risk of the python spreading diseases to native wildlife.
In defense of his actions, Mr. Fiuza has claimed that Shiva loves the water and has surfed with him at least ten times. He told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that Shiva enjoys being in the water and is always relaxed while doing so. He noted that she doesn’t exhibit any signs of distress, such as hissing.
While this unusual surfing adventure has stirred controversy, it’s worth noting that Shiva isn’t the first animal to gain recognition for hitting the waves at Rainbow Bay. A local duck, aptly named Duck, has become a regular sight, sometimes even catching waves alongside Australian surfing champion Steph Gilmore.
This case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in caring for exotic pets and the responsibility that comes with it. Wildlife regulations are in place not only to protect the animals themselves but also to ensure public safety and preserve native ecosystems.
In a world where social media can catapult moments of novelty to international attention, it’s essential to consider the welfare of animals and adhere to legal guidelines when showcasing these experiences. While Shiva’s surfing may have captured the hearts of many, wildlife authorities have underlined the importance of respecting wildlife and their natural behaviors.
