Hope you like this close-up of one of the world's most venomous snakes, the Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis) that is probably the one, which bites the most people in Oz. Here, it is the second most venomous after the Inland Taipan aka Fierce Snake (Oxyuranus microlepidotus), which can administer enough venom in one bite to kill 250,000 mice, however, is one of our most placid elapids, even reluctant to strike when annoyed.
The best rule to remember is to leave them well alone as trying to kill it or pick it up you're tempting fate.
Lucky for me, my friend is an expertly trained venomous reptile handler who stood near this beast of a snake with a hook and ice in his veins. Though I had to be calm too, as it came pretty close to me several times as I lay prone. It's certainly not something I would do alone with one of these, as they can strike incredibly fast.
Canon EOS 1DMkIIn, 300/4L IS USM, ISO400, f/8, 1/2000th, small crop from left and top.
Akos, this is a beauty! I refer to the image, as well as the subject itself:)
Superb exposure, great detail in those golden scales, wonderful colours and stunning BG.
I like the in-focus, out-of-focus effect - works so well here. Well composed and presented, that forked tongue a big bonus - congratulations Mate
Hi Akos - Nice timing with the tongue fully extended and I too like the curve and use of dof. Colors, tones and detail all look great. Better you than me lying within striking distance. What got its attention and caused it to lift off the ground?
My handling mate stood about a meter from the snake with tools ready, but the snake was not always trying to strike his leg. Here, it is simply tasting the air with its tongue as that's what they tend to do when they move about. I have some pics of it about to strike, looks really cool. Will post some later on.
Each individual will have a different personality. He has caught one recently and advised not to do this same stunt as the snake was a total psycho!
Very well done image Akos. Great to be young, fit and agile. Regarding the Cottonmouth I posted I would never attempted getting on the ground, overweight, slow and seventy-two do not work well for moving out of the way. You have a dedication to getting the shot that I do not possess, well done.
Joe Przybyla
"Sometimes I do get to places just as God is ready to have somebody click the shutter"... Ansel Adams
OMG, your friend is the bravest person on earth. I don't quite understand what he would do if the snake decides to strike his leg though. Back to the image. You are the second bravest person to be that close to him. The scales and the sharp in focus are incredible and the oOF actually gives some depth. Well done, but not recommending anyone else to do it though. Loi