GRIMSBY TELEGRAPH (UK) 16 November 07 Sulky Snake Sets Its Sights On Our Snapper

Throwing a hissy fit is the prerogative of any diva - but this stroppy snake knows how to make a real scene.

Steven Evan's Burmese albino python came over all camera-shy when she was placed in front of the lens as part of our Animal Crackers competition.

Vying for the title of most unusual pet, the snake called Shoes chose that precise moment to make her mark on her owner - by trying to give him a love bite.

Steven (20), of Cheapside, Waltham, said: "She wasn't very happy with the flash and the camera and she was getting a bit agitated.

"In the end she had just had enough, so she just thought 'Right - I'm going to try and eat you now!'"

The ratchety reptile then lunged for the Grimsby Telegraph's photographer, before wrapping herself around Steven's head and focussing her attention on his neck.

Steven said: "I was really shook up by it because she has never done anything like that before and I have had her since May.

"I wouldn't have been bothered, but because of the way I was holding her she was wrapped around me and right next to my head - I didn't want a big hickey on my neck from a snake!"

Steven finally managed to get his scaly friend inside her travel box, but our snapper Rick Byrne was nonetheless traumatised by his ordeal.

Rick said: "My whole life flashed before my eyes when that snake started hissing at me and baring its teeth.

"I thought it was going to try and eat my head!

"I have to say, I'm more of a guinea pig person myself."

The snake is now safe and sound back at home in Waltham, and is said to be holding a grudge against its owner after her foray in front of the camera.

Steven's grandmother Nancy Evans explained how the sulky serpent's unusual name sets her apart from the other contestants.

She said: "When he first bought the snake, Steven would bring it downstairs draped over his shoulder and I would always say: "Ooh, you would make a lovely pair of shoes!"

"So now we call her Shoes.

"I think she's in with a good chance. Well, the competition is called Animal Crackers - and you don't get more crackers than trying to eat the photographer!"



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