Brushfires and Snake Handling
Apparently the accepted method of killing snakes in Namibia is with fire. Imagine my surprise when I see a cloud of smoke that appears to be moving dangerously close to the house. I nervously move closer to investigate and find that indeed, where there is smoke there is fire… mere feet from my house and the entire family is circling the charred ground with sticks and hoes with intent looks on their faces as they peer at the ground. This peaks my attention as I tentatively squint through the thick haze of smoke. I sidle over and gaze at the ground and innocently engage in the following conversation:
"We are looking for what?"
"A poisonous snake. I think it’s over there” pointing mere feet from where I stand.
I calmly back away trying not to look as though I am freaking out at the thought of a poisonous snake stealthily moving towards me.
"It’s only mildly poisonous."
"Oh, okay." [As though that makes a difference. So I’ll die more slowly.] I think to myself.
I casually move 20 feet away, what I feel is an acceptable distance to run should the snake make a sudden appearance, and watch as they start moving rocks in search of the snake. Unfortunately, the snake is nowhere to be found. Apparently, he slithered away in the thick plumes of smoke. Now we have to purchase more petrol and burn him out of hiding. Ah, the joys of African wildlife.
