It might not have the historical prowess of, say, the Loch Ness Monster, but an unusual creature spotted along U.S. 54 in Pike County has been getting plenty of attention.
Two vehicles going in different directions on the highway near New Hartford stopped recently for a 15-foot snake about 4:30 a.m., Sheriff Paul Petty said.
Both drivers confused it for a log at first, but before anyone could get out to move it, it slithered away. Once it was out of the way, the drivers rolled their windows down and spoke to one another in traffic.
The motorists told authorities the snake was no less than 15 feet long, Petty said, and took up the entire width of the highway.
Since then, there have been no other sightings and no one has come forward indicating a snake of that size escaped from a home.
“This is the first time I’ve heard of this,” Petty said. “You’d think a snake of that size would have been seen prior but we’ve never had a report. Generally speaking, snakes of that size are reared in captivity first.”
The snake matched the description of a boa constrictor.
The sheriff’s department believes it eats no more than once a month and encourages those in the area to keep a close watch on pets and small animals.
In the August heat, snakes are more attracted to cooler locations such as sheds or pole barns common in rural communities as well as residential basements. People in the area should also keep an eye out in trees and shrubs.