Snake break-out warning for Essex pet owners
6th August 2010
Pet owners in Wickford, Essex, have been warned to stay on their guard after a 6ft boa constrictor escaped from its tank.
The pet snake, which slid out of a bathroom window earlier in the week, is "potentially dangerous" but more likely to feed on small animals rather than taking on local residents.
Police said Diego is "as thick as a baseball bat" despite not yet being fully grown, and could pose a threat to pets, prompting locals to check the terms of their pet insurance cover in case of an attack.
However, a police spokesman said that while the snake is classed as a dangerous animal, an attack remains unlikely.
"Essex Police cannot rule out a risk to the public, however our understanding is that this snake will only feed on small animals. Police have consulted with the chair of the Essex Reptiles and Amphibians Club who agrees that is it unlikely to be a threat to the public," the spokesman said.
Diego's owner and reptile specialist Aaron Waymont, 22, said: "I'm expecting to see him appear any day soon because he'll be hungry. I've kept a lot of animals in my time, but I've never had one go missing before. He broke his glass and found his way out.
"I think he is going to be up in trees as they provide security. I'm very worried for Diego and for the public as well. I'm going out three times a day to look for him."
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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