It may sound like an urban myth, but experts confirm that snake bites from toilets are a genuine — though uncommon — danger in some regions. Reports have surfaced from multiple continents, especially in places where snakes live close to human homes.
Most incidents occur when snakes seek refuge during rainy seasons or slither into houses through drains, sewer lines, roof vents, or bathroom cracks. Surprisingly, toilets can become an unexpected entry point.
One of the most shocking cases occurred in Thailand, where a man was bitten on the testicles by a 12-foot python hiding in his toilet. He survived but needed immediate surgery.
In South Africa, a Dutch tourist was attacked by a Cape cobra while using an outdoor restroom. The venomous bite caused serious injuries and drew global attention to the dangers in snake-prone areas.
Other cases have been reported around the world — from Texas, where a woman was bitten by a rat snake, to Australia, where a carpet python struck a woman’s thigh mid-use. Though not all bites are deadly, they often leave victims traumatized and sometimes requiring surgery.
Experts note that beyond physical harm, survivors frequently develop lasting anxiety about bathrooms. The psychological impact, they say, can be just as severe as the wounds themselves.
Herpetologists explain that snakes can crawl through open plumbing, broken pipes, or poorly sealed drainage systems — especially in rural homes or public restrooms. “Snakes are capable climbers and can emerge in toilets unexpectedly,” one expert warned.
While such incidents remain rare, they highlight the importance of prevention. In areas where snakes are common, sealing bathrooms, repairing plumbing, and staying vigilant can help. Awareness, experts say, is the best way to prevent these frightening encounters.
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