Giant boa constrictor at large in Sydney suburb, residents warned

Residents of a Sydney suburb have reportedly been warned to be on the lookout for a massive snake after a 'freshly shed' skin from reptile was found in the town. The snake is believed to be an adult boa constrictor which is amongst the world's largest snake species, with an average length of 10 feet as per a statement from New South Wales (NSW) government. 

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Government advisory

Reports suggest that the snake is in Silverdale which is a small town west of Sydney after its skin was spotted at a property on October 10. Residents have been advised to report any sighting to the state's forestry department. The statement also advised citizens to avoid any contact with the reptile. The statement said that while Boa constrictor is not venemous they can bite and strangle their prey further adding that they can pose a serious threat to wildlife and can be dangerous to humans. 

The snakeskin was earlier seen by a construction worker who was reportedly renovating a property in Silverdale and reported the case to authorities. 

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Law regarding boa constrictors

The law, as per forestry department's websites says that keeping a boa constrictor is illegal outside of zoos in New South Wales. The reptile is a native species to Central and South America. It has an arrow-like head and patterns of circles and lines which make it possible for it to avoid detection in wild. 

The forestry department meanwhile said that once the snake was located it shall be sent to the veterinarian to decide as to where it came from. The statement said that snake will be examined to see where it came from and how long has it been in the area and what it has been eating whether it's carrying any diseases of concern and whether it has given birth to a baby or not.

(With inputs from agencies) 

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