Released "python" rescue?

[rtman26]

An acquaintance told me the other day that a friend of his had bought their son a "python" about two years ago but for some reason decided to let it go. Their friend's carelessness and stupidity makes me rather grumpy but that's not the point of this thread. Then another friend of his says he saw the same snake about two days ago and he's worried with such a "large" (his words, not mine) snake being so close to his house. He asked the acquaintance of mine if he caught it, did he know of anyone that would want it or at least know what to do with it. The guy came to me and asked me if I'd be interested in finding a home or taking it. Naturally I said yes. The acquaintance of mine isn't sure what type of snake it is. He just said from the picture of it laying in the yard it looks like a python.

Now here's the point of the thread:

1. I live in Maryland. I find it very hard to believe that someone released a tropical snake two years ago and it's still alive. I would think the first month or two of fall would kill it, not to mention winter. Now I know its highly doubtful, but is there really any chance some sort of python or boa could pull this off?

2. If it IS, in fact, a python or boa, I do not believe that I have the experience, or the means to nurse what I can only assume will be a VERY sick snake back to health. How do I go about finding someone to care for it long-term? I'm kind of hoping that someone else in Harford County, Maryland will see this and chime in. There is a large local breeder, but I doubt he will have the time or interest in one anonymous, potentially ill snake.

Final note, I DO NOT currently have the snake. This is kind of just a "what if he shows up with a bag-o-snake" situation.

Anyone's input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for taking the time to read!

[wienkeg]

I agree, doubtful it is a tropical snake. Unless someone let it go this Summer, a winter in Maryland would definitely kill it. Most likely a ratsnake. Hope it isn't something else, like a copperhead or something else poisonous. (I'm in NC, only poisonous snakes here are copperheads/water moccasins)

I hope it's a beautiful ball python recently released, and it's in great shape and makes a great pet! Good luck, I'm interested to see what it is now

[mechnut450]

if brought to you post a picture to be id. If needed I know a vet in my area that does great with snakes. in medical issues.

[hypnotixdmp]

Yeah hope its not a venomous snake, then you need to get someone with exp. to move it to a safe location.

Would be cool to see a recently released constrictor of sorts. Definitely let us get some pictures if you get it!!!

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[bcr229]

Hopefully it's someone's escaped pet and not one that was deliberately released. I also wouldn't assume that the snake would need a lot of veterinary attention, though I would definitely take it to the vet for a checkup even if it looked healthy. These guys are often hardier than we give them credit for.

[sorraia]

I'd be surprised if it were the same snake as that released 2 years ago. Although climate alone is not the sole determining factor in a snake's survival in the wild, these maps show Maryland is unlikely to have suitable climate for Burmese python survival, and presumably other pythons with similar climate requirements.

http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article_pf.asp?ID=1875

[rtman26]

I can't imagine its venomous--the only two venomous species usually in MD are copperheads and timber rattlers. I, as well, am assuming it's just a mis-identified rat snake.

Thanks for the replies I will post pics if they are given to me.

If it is given to me....and anyone local wants it....it will be free because I have no intention of keeping it. Unless it's really awesome.