Guelph Mercury

Residents of Arthur are being asked to be on the lookout for a seven foot snake that has been on the loose for the past week.

Wellington County OPP received information that a 7 ft boa constrictor may have escaped from a residence in Arthur. Police conducted an investigation and finally located and spoke to the owner of the snake who confirmed that the snake was in fact missing.

The owner said the snake has been missing since June 19 when it escaped out of a second floor apartment on George Street by sliding the screen of an open window while the owner was cleaning its’ tank.

The boa constrictor is described as approximately 40 pounds, roughly eight years old and normally eats jumbo rats.

Police said the snake is not venomous and generally considered docile and harmless, but may bite if cornered or agitated.

These snakes can easily survive the current weather conditions and can also climb trees.  A search of the surrounding area and canvass of the neighbours and local businesses was fruitless.

Wellington County OPP are requesting the public’s assistance in locating this snake and if observed please do not try and capture it.  Please call 1-888-310-1122 or 911.