Saturday, August 8, 2009

News of the Moment: Why Python is So Appropriate


Show us some skin!

For fear of being trampled by angry PETA protesters, I have to justify why I believe python is in. No, it doesn't have anything to do with the fact that Vogue is endorsing animal prints for Fall. Nor is it driven by the lack of animal skins in the Fall trends. My interest in this specie actually came from a news feed.

It was to my surprise that this type of snake, a prized reptile to fashionistas and serpent lovers alike, is now a bane to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. According to the LA Times article, the Burmese pythons started invading the Everglades after escaping or being released by their owners.

However, invasion wasn't their only objective. MSNBC.com reported that a handful of them became the new predators of the Floridian ecosystem, easily swallowing "smaller species that conservationists are trying to protect, including other reptiles, otters, squirrels, woodstorks and sparrows."

Even the famed Florida gators aren't safe from these creatures: a 13-foot Burmese python actually burst after attempting to swallow a 6-foot alligator. And if that wasn't enough, authorities warn that children take caution when entering the 'Glades.

Currently, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hired a group of experienced hunters to track down and kill these predators immediately. Although there is no posted bounty for the snakes, I'm sure that those wealthy enough can keep some in their closets.


From top: Platform python sandals by Marni, $508 at www.marni.com; sandals by Chloé, $540 at www.theoutnet.com; pitone tote by Prada, $3300 at www.saksfifthavenue.com; python shoulder bag by Donna Karan, $2170 at www.theoutnet.com

5 comments:

Ahahgshene said...

"the Burmese pythons started invading the Everglades after escaping or being released by their owners." you know why they invaded?! cuz they have no place to go!!! lol. with all this world trying to build buildings and cities pythons needs to friggin get their own territories!! LOL.

no anyway, interesting blog.

Trish said...

i dont like snakes though im born in the year of the snake haha they just freak me out, oh well good bye pythons, hello snake skin accessories & clothing!

Ahahgshene said...

hey lover, i gave you an award :]

and pick up your phone, well at least call me by friday. mel wants to hang out.

Nico said...

Trish, you are so funny. Yes, snakeskin will be all over the place for Fall. Lemme know when you get yars. Hello, python.

kadler said...

That's so interesting - I'd never thought about that. Then again, we probably invaded their territory first :)