Near Kuranda, Lake Barrine, is an ancient water-filled volcanic crater, with much local wildlife. Before walking around the lake we check that there are no crocodiles resident in the lake.
A negative answer sees us off on the one-hour trek through the forest lining the lake shore. The bird calls of the forest echo around above us but the creators remain unseen.
A scurrying in the bushes causes us to stop, as several brush turkeys scurry away. Somehow the thoughts of snakes are higher on the list than the turkeys. At a clearing overlooking the rushes and swampy edge of the lake, a massive head pokes out of the water, body glistening in the sun. It’s the largest of the region’s snakes, a diamond python, that grows to 5m. Being that close to a large snake creates a dilemma of whether to move closer for a better look or move back for safety. After lifting its head the snake ignores us and continues to warm itself in the sun.
Some of the bird life moves away as we pass but a pelican comes in to inspect us, no doubt used to any leftovers from visitors. A nearby group of picnickers offers a handout and are quickly mobbed by birds.
