News: 2 die in rock python attack

[Bluebonnet Herp]

Unfortunately, this is what your interview will probably evolve into.

"African Rock Pythons, Python sebae, are typically aggressive in wild caught individuals, or captive bred specimens who receive little to no handling." Said snake expert, Cody Conway.

"African [pythons] were a fairly common sight in pet stores during the first decade of 2000, but have since become less kept. This is due to the fact that many wild caught imports were still being sold - which were aggressive - and the [snakes] that were being sold were simply growing too large for most keepers who did not realize exactly what they were getting into. In current day - the US has added Python sebae to the injurious wildlife list of the Lacey act, effectively prohibiting it from interstate transportation, in or out. This also forbids the ability for these snakes to be brought into the states," he continued. African rock pythons, along with Burmese pythons, are known to be invasive in the state of Florida. Florida citizens became even more worried when fear sparked that hybrids of the two could become larger and more aggressive. "Florida basically forbids them from ownership outside of snakes that were already owned prior to the laws being placed."
Recently, Ohio has passed stricter legislation after a man released exotic tigers, lions, and bears before killing himself.
"Ohio requires very strict insurance to be purchased as well as permits."

"African Rocks need large caging, experienced handlers (those who have at least dealt with large constrictors) and large food items. They are not something to be kept by everyone," said Cody Conway. He went on to state "with most giant constrictors (Burmese, Reticulated Pythons, and Anacondas) African rocks exhibit a trait known as feeding aggression which essentially is a response for food when a cage is opened. It is a dangerous moment for the keeper"
Pythons are also known for their ability to take down large prey items. In the wild, these animals will typically eat small antelope. A Burmese python was found with a deer in its stomach. A photo of a Burmese python that exploded after eating swallowing an alligator has been posted on the internet.
"Food for an adult will range from 3-8 pound rabbits, or a few adult chickens, or even pigs" he went on to say.

Pythons "from wild caught origin are known for their extremely aggressive behavior."
"A snake that is left in its cage with feeding being the only interaction it receives, will typically stay on the aggressive side."

Who knew being a journalist could be so easy? Expose a few bad facts, make it scary, and then get rich from advertisement revenue.