Police captured a six-foot python close to entering a Port St. Lucie home on Tuesday night. Officers were called to the home when homeowner Jeff Morgan found the snake just inches from his open sliding glass door.
Morgan explained that he first thought the snake was something else until his daughter, Kloie, shined a flashlight on it. The family brought their dog inside and called authorities.
Port St. Lucie police arrived within minutes and found the snake that had slithered away across the pool deck to an old cabana. Officers chased it out of where it was hiding into an open area in their backyard and then one of them kind of went over it and put a towel over its head and two of them grabbed it and picked it up.
Kloie said officers told her that the snake was likely a pet, either lost or let go. This experience was a first for Morgan. He’s lived in the area for 35 years and this is the first python he’s ever found on his property. Hopefully, it’s the last.
Python
Pythons are a species of large, nonvenomous snakes found in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. There are many different species of pythons, all of which share some common characteristics. Pythons are constrictors, meaning they kill their prey by coiling around it and squeezing. They have sharp teeth that help them grip their prey, and their flexible jaws allow them to swallow prey whole. Pythons are typically brown or green in color, and can grow to be quite large—some species can reach over 20 feet in length.
Despite their size, pythons are not typically aggressive animals. In fact, they are quite shy and often avoid humans. However, they will defend themselves if threatened, and their powerful coils can be deadly. Pythons are also excellent swimmers and can easily cross rivers and other bodies of water.
While pythons can be dangerous animals, they are not typically considered a threat to humans. Attacks on humans are rare, and most pythons that come into contact with people are actually quite docile. However, it is important to be aware of their potential danger and to avoid handling them if possible. If you must handle a python, always use extreme caution and seek professional help if necessary.
What To Do When You Encounter A Python
If you see a python in the wild, it is important to stay calm and avoid sudden movements. If the python is far away, simply walk away slowly and give it plenty of space. If the python is close by, slowly back away while keeping an eye on the snake. Do not try to capture or kill the python—this will only increase its stress levels and make it more likely to attack. If you are bitten by a python, seek medical attention immediately.
Pythons are not typically found in urban areas, but they can sometimes end up in residential areas if they are released into the wild or escape from captivity. If you see a python in your neighborhood, it is important to call your local animal control or wildlife agency. Do not attempt to capture the snake yourself—professionals have the necessary training and equipment to safely remove the python from the area.
Getting Rid Of Pythons From Your Property
If you have a python on your property, the best thing to do is to call a professional wildlife removal service. These services are typically equipped to safely capture and remove pythons from your property. There are a few different ways to get rid of snakes, including
- Trapping: Trapping is the most common method of snake removal. Wildlife removal services will typically use live traps to capture the python. Once the snake is captured, it can be relocated to a more suitable habitat.
- Snaring: Snaring is a method of capturing snakes that involves using a wire loop to snare the snake around the body. This method is typically used for smaller snakes, as larger snakes can easily slip out of the wire loop.
- Hand-picking: Hand-picking is a method of removing snakes by hand. This method is only recommended for experienced professionals, as it can be dangerous if not done correctly.
Preventing Pythons From Your Property
There are a few things you can do to prevent pythons from getting on your property in the first place.
- Keep your property clean and free of debris: Debris such as woodpiles and tall grass can provide hiding places for snakes. Remove any potential hiding places from your property to make it less attractive to snakes.
- Seal up any openings: Snakes can enter your home through small openings such as cracks in the foundation or gaps around doors and windows. Inspect your home and seal up any openings that could allow snakes to enter.
- Remove food sources: Snakes are attracted to areas where they can find food. If you have a problem with snakes on your property, remove any potential food sources such as bird feeders and pet food dishes.
- Use snake repellents: Snake repellents are chemicals that can discourage snakes from entering an area. There are a variety of snake repellents available, but their effectiveness is debatable. Some people swear by them, while others say they don’t work at all.
- Call a professional: If you have a problem with snakes on your property, call a professional wildlife removal service. These services can help you get rid of existing snakes and prevent future snakes from getting on your property.
Professional Snake Removal
If you have a problem with snakes, you need to call a professional snake removal company. Snakes are a big problem. There are many different types of snakes, and most of them are not venomous. But there are some that are very dangerous, and you don’t want to take chances with your family’s safety.
AAAC Wildlife Removal is a professional snake removal company that can help you with your snake problem. We have the experience and the knowledge to safely and humanely remove snakes from your property, and we also know how to prevent them from coming back. Call us today for a free consultation, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have about our services.
The news originally from: https://www.wptv.com/news/region-st-lucie-county/port-st-lucie/police-capture-six-foot-python-close-to-entering-port-st-lucie-home
