And finally… off the scales

The owner of a surfing python has been fined after breaching the strict conditions of his animal permit.

Higor Fiuza was filmed longboarding with three-year-old carpet python Shiva off Australia’s Gold Coast in footage which went viral on social media this month, ABC reports.

His online fame backfired after he was slapped with a $2,322 AUD (around €1,400 or £1,200) fine for taking his pet out in public without permission.

Queensland’s Department of Environment and Science said his permit to keep native animals does not allow him to take Shiva outside except in certain circumstances, such as a trip to the vet.

Senior wildlife officer John McDonald said the “only snakes that should be in the ocean are sea snakes”.

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