In what sounds like a segment on Fear Factor, animal control officials were forced to remove over 500 snakes and rodents from a San Antonio home this week.
According to The San Antonio Express-News, Animal Care Services removed 136 reticulated pythons and ball pythons, two of which were 10-footers, on Wednesday due to concerns about the animals’ living conditions. Over 400 rodents were also removed from the premises.
Investigators say the owner was breeding and selling the non venomous reptiles, but would not disclose how many snakes he had or what their living conditions were. This prompted authorities to get a search warrant and ultimately seize the animals.
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Officers found snakes in cages and plastic tubs, some of which were stacked in a shed. 415 mice and rats that were being used as the snakes’ food source were also removed.
San Antonio’s animal ordinance does not have specific restrictions for non venomous snakes but does require the reptiles have access to fresh air, water, food, and shelter.
The owner must appear in court within 10 days to fight for custody. If Animal Care Services is granted custody, the organization will work with local rescue shelters and zoos to find placement for the snakes.
[Image via WENN]
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