A tiny Southern African python nicknamed Surf was rescued from a Munster Beach after apparently being washed out and caught in the surf.

Munster Conservancy chairman and ASI-licensed snake catcher, Corrie Lotter, was alerted by a beachgoer on September 19, after the 60cm hatchling was spotted on the beach.

Lotter said the young python appeared to have been in the water for some time, with water draining from its nostrils when it was handled.

He took the snake home to recover before releasing it back into the forest.

Lotter said finding such a young python was encouraging as it indicated active breeding in the area.

“It’s good to see young ones, which means they are breeding upstream,” he said.

The area has a relatively healthy python population, despite the snakes being seldom seen.

Lotter said Surf would be released within its natural range, noting that Southern African pythons should preferably not be relocated outside their relatively small home range of about 2km to 3km.

Lotter works across Munster Conservancy and neighbouring areas, including Leisure Bay and Palm Beach, assisting residents with snake removals. His service is free, although homeowners are encouraged to support their local conservancy through donations.

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