Genre:

News-Commentary, Drollery

Relevant illustrations:

wdct.

Illustrators:

R D *

Subjects:

Zoology, Animal Development, Breeding, Animal Behaviour, Zoological Gardens, Botanical Gardens

    Noting the interest in the 'daily incubation of the Python' at the Zoological Society Gardens, wishes to know what will become of the large number of eggs once they have hatched. Suggests that, while pythons may please those who have 'a fine ear for such instruments', the residents of Regent's Park will not be able to sleep through fear of waking up with pythons around them. Urges that these 'pretty pets' be kept safe and thus prevented from harming children and nursery-maids in Regent's Park. Expresses concern about the dangers of further python breeding and the 'dangerous invasion' of England by snakes. However, expects that the Zoological Gardens will give pythons to the Jardin des Plantes, Paris, and 'similar congenial institutions', and considers the possibility of them being sold as meat to costermongers. (150) Concludes by urging the directors of the Zoological Gardens not to send a python to Punch. The illustration, which forms the first word of the text, shows a young woman encircled by a snake.