The most expensive flower in the world

Our small electric riverboat minimizes disturbance to wildlife. We cruise into a shaded expanse which offers some relief from the sweltering heat. The operator turns off the engine and we drift into the abyss of this bewitching rainforest.  Juan listens and scans the area from starboard to port. Slowly, he points to a bush leaning over the water. A closer glimpse reveals a handsome black yellow ringed cat snake wrapped around a limb. A strong swimmer, this arboreal reptile feeds mainly on birds, rodents, lizards, frogs, fish, and other snakes.