We may have solved the age-old-question of "why did the chicken cross the road?" It turns out it was likely trying to get away from the giant-a** snake chasing it across the road.
I tell you that I would run across the road faster than I have ever moved before if I happened across the scene that police in Queensland, Australia did.
The two officers were on patrol a little north of Cairns, Queensland. The 16 foot snake was so big that it stretched across the entire length of the road, blocking any clear path to continue driving.
The two officers decided against trying to handle the snake themselves, and just allowed it to continue on its way across the road.
According to David Walton from Cairns Snake Removals the officers made the right call in not going after the snake themselves. Snakes that size have tremendous power. And even though the amethystine (scrub) python is a non-venomous snake, it could still turn on a dime and deliver a painful bite.
Amethystine pythons have been known to grow up to 26 feet, and the snake spotted by the officers was likely near the end of its life.
A giant snake is just par for the course in regards to Australian wildlife, which includes some of the most dangerous creatures on the planet.
1. Box Jellyfish
The sting from some breads of this jellyfish are so poisonous, that a sting from one of them can result in death in as little as two minutes.
2. Eastern Brown Snake
Eastern browns are the second-most-venomous snakes in the world, and because they are most active during the day when the sun is shining, they are the most commonly-encountered snake down-under. The have also adapted to live in almost any setting, including urban areas.
3. Saltwater Crocodile
The saltwater crocodile is about as close to a dinosaur as you are ever likely to get. They are the largest reptiles on the planet, and can grow in excess of 20 feet. They like to ambush their prey, using their powerful jaws to lock onto a meal and dragging it below the water to drown.
4. Great White Shark
We have all seen Jaws, and though these sharks aren't the most dangerous fish swimming off the shores of Australia, they do inspire a high level of fear in those enjoying the waves. Great white sharks can grow up to nearly 20 feet in length, and they have the power that comes with size like that.
5. Honey Bee
You read that correctly, the Australian honey bee is actually considered to be more dangerous than the wide variety of venomous spiders that inhabit the continent. Honey bees are actually responsible for more yearly deaths in Australia than either sharks or spiders.
Which of Australia's dangerous creatures scares you the most? Let us know in the comments.