It is with great sadness that our very large female burm named Big Bertha died due to complications from thromboembolic disease a few days ago. This disease is somewhat common with older and large female burms (according to one extensive study). Basically, clots form on the heart and when one of those clots break off they end up clogging up vital areas of the snake's body. This is what happened to our big gal....we knew right away something was wrong and by the time we arrived at the hospital, it was too late and I had to make the painful decision to put her down. This burm was measured at 19'2" and weighed 265 pounds....she was in her early 20's at the time of death so she lived a long and productive life. For the past five years she was our main attraction and dazzled thousands and thousands of people over the years while on exhibit and at the many outreach programs she performed at. We now have four "tiny" burms at our place ranging from 10' to 14'....it won't be long until we have another giant burm on our hands...but there will never be another big bertha; she was a very special animal. A number of pics have been posted of this incredible snake....if they are no longer on this forum, I'd be happy to send a pic for someone to post. Rob
Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm
City of Lake Forest Parks & Recreation (IL)
