Owner Admits Being Overwhelmed by Rapid Growth of Albino Burmese Python
A 13-foot Burmese python named Mango has been safely relocated to the Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo in Rome, New York, after its owner admitted he was unprepared for the reptile’s rapid growth.
Mango, a three-and-a-half-year-old albino Burmese python, found a new home at the zoo after her overwhelmed owner surrendered her on August 30. The zoo announced via a Facebook post, stating, “The owner was a little overwhelmed by how quickly she grew! We were surprised as well, but we are ready for the challenge of maintaining this awesome creature!”
The female python, measuring 13 feet in length and weighing 80 pounds, appeared to be in “good health” and continues to grow, according to a statement from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) on Tuesday.
The seizure
The python’s confiscation occurred after the DEC received a complaint on August 28 about a snake believed to be illegally owned in New Hartford. Environmental Conservation Police Officer Jeff Hull responded to the call and discovered the yellow snake confined inside a tank no larger than five feet.
Hull identified the snake as a Burmese python by the arrowhead-like design on her head. The owner confessed he was unprepared for “how fast the animal would grow” and admitted he could no longer care for Mango.
In New York, owning a Burmese python requires a permit. The owner received tickets for possession of wildlife as a pet and for possessing dangerous wildlife without a permit.
Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo, which holds the necessary state permits to own such a snake, welcomed Mango into their care. The zoo is now responsible for the continued care and growth of this remarkable creature.
Burmese pythons in the U.S.
Native to Southeast Asia, Burmese pythons have become popular pets in the United States. These reptiles can grow to be 16 feet long and are considered an invasive species in Florida.
This story serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with owning exotic pets and the importance of understanding their long-term care needs.