Wondrous strange

Natural History, July-August, 2003 by Richard Sutherland

Adam Summers has cleared the air about a memorable encounter I've wondered about for decades ["Biomechanics: Serpents in the Air" 5/03]. Walking alone along a jungle path on the Philippine island of Bongao, I spotted, coming from the high green canopy, a snake gliding toward me. I felt more awe than fear, and quickly eluded the snake, which, upon landing, darted rapidly up a tree nearby, tongue flicking, seemingly ready to try again. Knowing I would not be believed, I told no one. Mr. Summers has at last assured me that the experience had a mechanical explanation.

Richard Sutherland

Metchosin, British Columbia