OLATHE, KAN. – People in one Olathe neighborhood are sleeping with one eye open after a boa constrictor slithered away from a home. Animal control was out Saturday searching for the 6-foot snake, but did not find it.
Neighbors are worried because the snake is wandering around an area filled with kids. They’re keeping an eye on roof tops, trees, under cars, and anywhere a snake could be. The animal disappeared while the owners were moving out. Parents in the neighborhood say they fear the snake could pose a danger to children, who often like to play outside.
“That’s crazy,” said neighbor Cheri Hambleton. “I can’t imagine having that type of pet in this situation, townhouses, lots of kids around.”
The owner of the property said he didn’t know his tenants had the snake and it’s a violation of the lease, and they are out for good. Johnson County Animal Control said the 6-foot boa can pose a threat to small animals or pets.
Animal experts say boas will strike when threatened or bite in defense. As for eating, the snake can go anywhere from a week to a month between feedings.