Python bites Chinese tourist on the nose as she attempts to kiss it at Phuket animal show

The reticulated python's handler reacting in shock as it strikes at Ms Jin Jing's nose. PHOTO: SCREENGRAB FROM YOUTUBE

A Thai company had to pay US$3,200 (S$4,600) in damages to a Chinese tourist after one of its pythons bit her on the nose.

The 29-year-old woman, named by local newspaper Phuket News as Jin Jing, was attempting to kiss the reticulated python during a show at an animal park near the Phuket Zoo.

A video of the incident, which has been spreading on social media, showed the snake striking at Ms Jin's face before latching on to her nose.

People in the crowd could be heard screaming as the python's shocked handler attempted to pry it away.

Ms Jin was taken to Phuket International Hospital where she received treatment.

Reticulated pythons are known to be the world's longest snake species, but they are not venomous.

Phuket News also released a close-up photo of Ms Jin's face, which showed several stitches on her nose.

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