Kids swing dead python as skipping rope in horrifying viral video; internet SHOCKED

A shocking video has surfaced online, showing children in Woorabinda, Central Queensland, using a snake as a skipping rope. The footage, which has since gone viral, has sparked widespread outrage and prompted an investigation by authorities. The video, filmed in Woorabinda, a remote town about two hours from Rockhampton, shows several children swinging what appears to be a black-headed python while others jump over it.

According to the Daily Mail, an adult, believed to be supervising, records the scene and can be heard saying, "Show me that, show me what it is." One of the children then identifies the reptile as a black-headed python. It remains unclear whether the snake was already dead before the children used it in this manner.

The footage quickly gained traction on social media, drawing strong reactions from viewers. One user commented, "That’s the most bizarre thing I’ve seen in a while," while another criticized the act, stating, "This is wrong on so many levels." Some speculated on the snake’s fate, with a user writing, "And I bet they’re the ones who killed it."

Authorities Condemn 'Inappropriate' Behavior

Following the video's circulation, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation confirmed that an investigation is underway. "We condemn this inappropriate behaviour and will investigate the incident," a department spokesperson stated. They further urged the public to treat all animals with respect, whether alive or dead.

Under Queensland’s Nature Conservation Act 1992, black-headed pythons are a protected species. It is illegal to kill, harm, or remove them from the wild. Anyone found guilty of harming or killing one faces a maximum fine of $12,615.

Authorities have urged residents to report similar incidents immediately. "The killing or injuring of native animals should be reported to the Department of the Environment, Science, Tourism and Innovation or the RSPCA," the spokesperson added.

Experts and Wildlife Groups Respond

Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers, a well-known wildlife rescue group, condemned the footage, particularly criticizing the involvement of an adult. "The saddest part about this video is that the children were being encouraged by an adult to carry out this behaviour," the group stated in an Instagram post. "It’s extremely important that parents educate their children on respecting wildlife so incidents like this don’t continue to happen."

The group also highlighted an alarming trend of people capturing, harming, or killing snakes. "We have seen a big increase lately in members of the public catching snakes or hurting/killing snakes like in this video, and it’s sickening to watch," they wrote.

Black-Headed Pythons: A Protected Species

Black-headed pythons are a non-venomous species native to northern Australia. They can grow up to 3.5 meters in length and kill prey by constriction. Though they may appear intimidating, experts state they are typically docile and pose no threat to humans unless provoked.

A department spokesperson noted, "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."

Authorities have advised that if a black-headed python is spotted, residents should avoid disturbing it and instead contact a licensed snake catcher for safe removal. The Queensland government continues to investigate the incident to determine if any laws were broken.