'Beautiful and graceful' adopted pet python is killed in brutal fashion by a cane toad - as expert reveals what you should do if you come across the poisonous pest
- Harrowing picture of a cane toad wrapped in a dead carpet python has emerged
- The python was a beloved adopted pet that lived in a resident's garden 'for ages'
- Snake catchers in Queensland have revealed what to do if you find a cane toad
A tussle between a huge carpet python and an unassuming toad has left the larger reptile dead and a family devastated.
The carpet python had been living in a Northern New South Wales resident's back garden 'for ages', according to the homeowner.
Described as 'beautiful and graceful', the family was happy to house the snake as it kept rodents away from their home.
But, this week, the heartbroken family came home to discover the adopted pet snake had been killed.
A picture of the deceased reptile shows a cane toad eerily intertwined in its body.
A harrowing image of a cane toad wrapped in the body of a carpet python it had killed has left many wondering what they should do should they come across one of the poisonous pests (pictured)
Brisbane Snake Catchers shared a photo of the grim discovery to their Facebook page on Monday, along with advice for people who happen to come across the poisonous toads.
'This poor carpet Python was living in a residents backyard in Kingscliff Northern NSW for ages,' the Facebook post read.
'They said it was so beautiful and gracefull (sic) the pythons kept the rodents on the property in check. They were devastated when they found him deceased.'
The snake catchers' page went on to say cane toads cause havoc in Australia and are responsible for killing animals on a daily basis.
Concerned residents asked exactly what they should do to ensure their pets' safety.
'You can collect cane toads In a bag and place in your freezer, this will put the toads to sleep peacfully (sic),' the post continued.
This image of a pack of cane toads hitching a ride on a python went viral about a fortnight ago
'If your not comfortable with this, you can also collect cane toads put in a plastic bag or tub and take them to the RSPCA. They will humanely euthanise these pests.'
Some followers commented less humane ways to deal with the cane toads, including using golf clubs or firecrackers, but the reptile authorities advised against it.
'We don't recommend going around and Massacring these animals. They were introduced. Its not their fault there here, all Animals can feel pain, even cane toads.'
Less than a fortnight ago, an image of a group of cane toads riding on the back of a slithering serpent made the rounds on social media.
While some speculated that the cane toads were riding the snake as an act of dominance, it was later revealed they were simply escaping flood waters together.
