Rope snake

Today I faced up to my fear of snakes by attending a "reptile encounter" session at a small zoo.

I fought back the tears at the start when the first specimen was passed around the audience, but I am proud to say that by snake number 5 I was brave enough to stroke its skin. I have to admit that I wasn't quite as bold as Mr hazelh who wore a very long constrictor around his neck for a couple of minutes.

I didn't touch this one, but - as you can see - I got quite close.