Dancing with Cobras



Tourist attraction?

Some of the faculty members told me not to go.  They said it was too dangerous.  They said it was mating season and "wild" snakes often visit the area looking for romance. They asked if I had a life insurance policy. Glad I didn't listen. One brave professor and three students drove me to the King Cobra Village today. It was another great experience.

King cobras are native to Thailand and highly venomous - one bite can bring down an elephant. They are culturally important species, mainly because of their looks and habits (credited with having a good memory). In India, snake charmers put King cobras in baskets. In Thailand, at least Khon Kaen, they put on live animal shows. It's similar to rattlesnake roundups in the U.S. I've been to those too. Crazy, huh?

Area farmers figured they could make some extra money by agitating snakes, so they put on several performances a day for tourists. Probably make more money than rice farming, but this "hobby" is risky. One of the trainers was missing a few fingers (kind of reminded me of noodlers).  Last week the "head" trainer was killed by a snake. I read about it in the newspaper. But the show must go on.

First, some young girls got on stage with pythons (non-venomous). Later, they put the snake's head in their mouth - bizzare, but a real crowd-pleaser. Next, some guys got on stage and started messing around with live cobras. Not sure if they had been miked, but even so, I wouldn't want to take any chances. Finally, a small boy got on stage and demonstrated his prowess with a live, non-venomous snake.  They took up a love offering and I made a small donation. I bought a few souvenirs, but no snakes.


Out of the mouths of babes




Snake or arm quicker?

    



The serpent shall strike thy heel



Train up a child...