Brisbane woman wakes to find a 2.5-metre python resting on her chest

Representation image (Courtesy: Reuters photo)

A Brisbane woman has described a terrifying early-morning moment after waking up to find a large python lying across her chest while she slept.

The incident took place at her home in Brisbane, where she was asleep in bed with her partner. The woman said she was unaware anything was wrong until her partner switched on the bedside lamp and froze.

According to her account, her partner quietly told her not to move, explaining that there was a large snake on top of her. The woman later said she remained completely still, afraid that any sudden movement could startle the animal.

The snake was later identified as a carpet python measuring about 2.5 metres long. Carpet pythons are non-venomous but can grow large and powerful. Wildlife handlers say they are capable of entering homes through small openings, especially when chasing prey or seeking warmth.

The woman believes the python likely entered the bedroom by squeezing through window shutters before dropping onto the bed. Carpet pythons are strong climbers and are known to access roofs, trees and balconies in suburban areas.

Her partner slowly got out of bed and contacted a licensed snake catcher, who arrived and removed the python safely. No one was injured during the incident, and the snake was later released into bushland away from residential areas.

Snake catchers in Queensland say encounters like this, while alarming, are not unheard of. During warmer months, snakes are more active and may move closer to homes in search of rodents, birds or shelter. Bedrooms, garages and roof spaces are among the most common places where snakes are found inside houses.

Wildlife authorities consistently advise residents not to attempt to handle snakes themselves. Even non-venomous snakes can bite when threatened, and handling them without training can lead to injury for both people and the animal.

Experts recommend sealing gaps around windows, doors and roofs, trimming overhanging branches, and reducing clutter in yards that may attract rodents. These steps can lower the chances of snakes entering homes.

The woman said the experience was deeply unsettling and left her shaken, but she was relieved that it ended without harm. She also said she hopes the incident encourages others to take basic precautions and to call professionals if they encounter wildlife inside their homes.

For many Australians living close to bushland, wildlife experts say coexistence is often unavoidable. Staying calm and seeking professional help remains the safest response.