Viral video sparks outrage in Queensland
A shocking video of children using a dead snake as a skipping rope has gone viral, triggering public outrage and official scrutiny. According to 7NEWS, the incident occurred in Woorabinda, a remote town in Central Queensland, Australia, about two hours from Rockhampton.
The footage shows children laughing and jumping over the snake, while an adult, seemingly supervising them, records the scene.
Children seen playing with dead snake
In the video, a woman can be heard saying, “Show me that, show me what it is,” as she films the unusual act. The children, unfazed, continue to giggle and jump over the lifeless reptile. One of the boys in the clip identifies the snake as a black-headed python.
However, it remains unclear whether the snake was already dead before the children started using it as a makeshift skipping rope.
Authorities condemn ‘inappropriate behaviour’
As the video gained traction online, drawing thousands of views, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science, and Innovation intervened.
In a statement to 7NEWS, a department spokesperson confirmed that an investigation is underway.
“We condemn this inappropriate behavior and will investigate the incident,” the spokesperson said. “We ask all Queenslanders to treat animals with respect, whether they are alive or dead.”
The spokesperson also noted that the maximum fine for killing or injuring a black-headed python is $12,615.
Black-headed pythons are protected under Queensland’s Nature Conservation Act 1992. It is illegal to kill, harm, or remove any snake from the wild in the state.
Internet reacts to the controversial clip
The video, shared on X (formerly Twitter), has amassed nearly 15k views and received mixed reactions.
“That’s the most bizarre thing I’ve seen in a while,” one user commented.
Another criticized the act, stating, “This is wrong on so many levels.”
Some speculated about the snake’s fate, with one writing, “And I bet they’re the ones who killed it.”
Another simply remarked, “This is not done.”