Shiva the Python Goes Surfing With Their Human

When Australian surfer Higor Fiuza took his bredli carpet python Shiva out to catch some waves, he got a lot of positive attention — a viral video on social media and an interview with Nine News. But then the Queensland Department of Environment and Science wanted a word.

Although Fiuza has a permit to keep the snake, there are strict rules about mingling with the public at large. “We do not want permit holders to be displaying their native animals in public unless it is done for a specific approved purpose and in a way that best provides for the welfare of the animal," Senior Wildlife Officer Jonathan McDonald said in a statement.

“Snakes are obviously cold-blooded animals,” McDonald continued, “and while they can swim, reptiles generally avoid water. The python would have found the water to be extremely cold, and the only snakes that should be in the ocean are sea snakes.” A chastised Fiuza was then fined $2,322 ($1,500 US). 

Shiva the snake is only the latest nonhuman seen shredding waves. At the same Aussie beach in Rainbow Bay, a duck named Duck is a regular body surfer who occasionally climbs aboard a board. 

@daxon via Instagram

Dogs of all breeds have been surfing for so long that there are World Dog Surfing Championships held on the Northern California coast “where the concept for the sport originated,” according to organizers. The event raises money for charitable causes and promotes the adoption of shelter dogs. Also the doggos seem to really enjoy themselves.

@skylerthesurfingdog via Instagram

Meanwhile the surfing sea otter in Santa Cruz is still at large, still commandeering boards from local surfers. She has evaded capture and has in fact enlisted the support of the surfers themselves, who have petitioned the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to let her be.

Photo credit: Nine News