Just thought I would share my letter to the article writer. My credentials aren't quite what others are in here, but whatever works right!
Hello,
Your article has gotten the attention of many herpetologists and venomous snake hobbyists alike. I will agree that this particular snake is not capable of delivering a fatal bite to a healthy human being. False water cobras are barely even venomous and any deaths that are caused by a bite from this specimen are typically due to an allergic reaction to the venom, much like could be seen from a bee sting on someone who is allergic to bees. My primary reason for emailing you was in the concern for how these individuals “put down” the specimen. Freezing an animal live is a very cruel way to “put down” any animal. The reptile hobbyist community, myself included are appalled by the method of these “authorities”. This was animal abuse in one of the truest forms. If there is ever a time to put in an article, we feel that now is the time. The so-called “authorities” that inhibited this action, should be penalized for their actions. If they were capable of removing the animal, then they were perfectly capable of helping to restrain while the animal was properly euthanized, as opposed to given a very slow and painful death.
Best Wishes,
Chris Law
Herpetology enthusiast
Columbus, Ohio
