‘Supernatural python’ saved from Tanzanian pilgrims

The authorities in Tanzania have rescued a giant python from a forest after it was mobbed by pilgrims who believed it had supernatural powers.

People began flocking to Kasala forest in the north-west of the country when the snake, which is estimated to be at least 3m (10ft) long, was spotted two weeks ago.

They came to give it offerings of live animals in the belief that if it ate them it would deliver their wishes.

Pythons wrap themselves around their prey and suffocate it to death before swallowing it whole.

Some of the pilgrims gave the python goats while asking for its help with curing diseases and cleansing away evil spirits.

Locals told the BBC that this was common practice in superstitious mining areas such as north-western Geita province.

They deny it is a form of witchcraft, saying it is their way of worshipping.

Issa Kawandiba, who led a group from his village to the forest, told the BBC they were seeking the python’s blessing for good rains.

The python had rejected a goat but swallowed an offering of goat’s blood, so he was hopeful they would receive their wish.

During the trip to the forest, he said they had seen church services being conducted under the trees in the presence of the snake.

Others were seen creeping up close to the giant snake to take photographs of it with their phones.

But the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism later intervened after growing alarmed at the high number of people who were trekking to see the snake.

It has organised for the python to be moved to a neighbouring game reserve to ensure its safety - and that of its devotees.