Bali, a 22ft female reticulated python, was coaxed out of her home yesterday by a team of zookeepers in Chester Zoo. A tube was placed around the snake's head to make her feel comfortable, as if she were in a cave.
Richard Gibson, the curator of lower vertebrates and invertebrates, led the team as they spring-cleaned Bali's enclosure and checked her health. Bali, who weighs 13st 8lb, came to Chester three years ago, though her age is not known. Her species is the longest snake in the world and she lives off chickens and turkeys.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies