This season has bought long awaited signs of special blessings to many members of the Luo community in western Kenya. Omens of a bounteous harvest and general good fortune are manifest. And one significant "oracle" is a fat, 14ft. python, affectionately known as Omweri (a welcome guest).
Omweri unexpectedly sought refuge in the home of an actually delighted Mr. Okumu. She had made a nest and laid many eggs, which she carefully guards under the thick coils of her belly.
Removal of the serpent could only spell doom, the village Elders decided. Omweri must be made welcome, fed and otherwise cosseted like the important guest she is.
The Okumu family has therefore dutifully seen to the snake's every need. They built a shed for shade and, as laid down in the traditional lore of Luo hospitality, gladly shared their food and water with the huge python.
Lately, however, Omweri has become somewhat testy, unappreciative of the family's kindness. According to reports, she hisses menacingly if anyone dares to approach too close.
Kenya Wildlife Service personnel are monitoring the situation. They have rightly warned the community that, once her eggs have hatched, the mother python will be defensive of her brood - violently if she feels threatened.
The Elders have nonetheless decreed that she remains in place as a welcome harbringer of good fortune, notably of the imminent arrival of the April-June season of the "long rains."
We'll keep you posted.
Mr. Jake Binder
of Montréal, Canada
for US$500 for one VHF Radio for our Animal Rescue Scout
Ms. Lucy Webb
of Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A.
for her donation of US$300 for veterinary supplies for our Animal Orphans
Mrs. Nora Webley
of Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.A.
for a donation of US$100 for feeding and care of our 3 Orphan Cheetah for one month
Master Ken Stewart
of Miami, Florida
for a donation of US$ 20 for Milk for the Animal Orphans
For Continued Support:
Mrs. Jeanne Stewart
For lending their very special talents:
Denis Murphy, Artist
John Eames, Editor
