Six foot snake on the loose

Residents have been warned by police not to approach a 6ft pet boa constrictor on the loose after it escaped from its owner's house.

The large brown snake with distinctive black markings was reported missing after disappearing from its home in St Mary's Island, Chatham, on Sunday night.

A Kent Police spokeswoman said the snake had been fed in the few days before it went missing.

Boa constrictors can go for six months between meals.

Residents in the area have been warned by police to remain vigilant and not to approach the reptile if they spot it, but to call 999.

They have also been advised to keep windows and doors closed and if possible keep small animals in the house.

It is thought the snake may be hunting for a warm place given the current cold weather.

Inspector Dave Coleman said: "We have been advised that six foot is not large for a boa constrictor, however people should not touch it or attempt to pick it up by the tail as these snakes do bite."

He added: "We believe the snake will be looking for a damp, dark and warm location, and as it had been recently fed it will be fairly lethargic. They are also excellent swimmers."

Boa constrictors are non-venomous snakes usually found in central and south America feeding on bats in the wild.

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