Shocking discovery: A deadly snake lurking in boxes–Could you be at risk?
- Replies 2
Imagine reaching for a fruit in your kitchen only to find a slithering surprise nestled among the bunch!
That's exactly what happened at a New Hampshire grocery store, where employees stumbled upon a venomous snake hiding in a box of fruits.
This startling incident has raised concerns about exotic creatures turning up in the most unexpected places, and it begs the question: could you be at risk?
The staff at a Market Basket store in Manchester, New Hampshire, were in for a shock when they discovered an ornate cat-eyed snake, a species native to Ecuador, among their fruit delivery.
The “mildly venomous” reptile had hitched a ride across continents, ending up in the produce section of an American grocery store inside a box of bananas last February 15.
Source: NH Fish and Game Law Enforcement Division and Operation Game Thief / Facebook.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Law Enforcement Division was promptly called to the scene. Conservation officer Griffin McKeown humorously recounted the event, "Luckily for us, he seemed to be pretty familiar with snakes," referring to the employee who first discovered the reptile.
The department, more accustomed to dealing with local wildlife or surrendered pets, had never encountered a venomous snake call like this before.
"We've had a few calls about pet surrenders of ball pythons and stuff like that, but never, never a venomous snake. That's definitely a first for me."
Thankfully, the ornate cat-eyed snake was healthy and unharmed. It was quickly rehomed with Rainforest Reptile Shows Inc., a local reptile rescue organization, ensuring the safety of both the snake and the public.
The incident was documented with a photo shared by the New Hampshire Fish and Game officers, capturing the unexpected visitor in all its glory.
But this isn't an isolated case. From Australia to Oklahoma, there have been numerous reports of snakes turning up where they're least expected, including in beds and under pillows.
Source: Snake Catcher Dan / Youtube.
Daniel Busstra posted on his social media page that he caught a “non-venomous common tree snake” which he pulled out from his pillowcase.
Meanwhile, Donna Bratschun from Oklahoma found herself in a similar situation when a snake bit her after it found its way under her pillow.
"It's one thing for it to get into your house; it's another thing for it to find your bed, climb [into] your bed and cuddle under your pillow," Bratschun said.
Also read: Think it's Just a Sprained Ankle? See What Terrifying Discovery Awaited This Girl at the ER
What to Do If You Find a Snake in Your Home
The charity Humane World for Animals advises that if you come across a snake indoors, you should remain calm and avoid startling the animal.
Gently place an empty container, like a pail or wastebasket, over the snake and weigh it down to secure the reptile until an experienced handler can take over.
Local animal control services, as well as fire and police departments, are often equipped to assist with such situations or can direct you to someone who can.
While the chances of finding a venomous snake in your grocery haul are slim, it's a good reminder to inspect imported goods, especially those from regions known for exotic wildlife.
Always check your fruits and vegetables before bringing them into your home, and if you spot something unusual, don't hesitate to reach out to professionals.
Recommended for you: Revolutionary update at your favorite beauty retailer will transform your shopping experience forever–Find out how!
Have you ever had a close encounter with wildlife in an unexpected place? Do you have any tips for dealing with surprise visitors of the reptilian kind? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
That's exactly what happened at a New Hampshire grocery store, where employees stumbled upon a venomous snake hiding in a box of fruits.
This startling incident has raised concerns about exotic creatures turning up in the most unexpected places, and it begs the question: could you be at risk?
The staff at a Market Basket store in Manchester, New Hampshire, were in for a shock when they discovered an ornate cat-eyed snake, a species native to Ecuador, among their fruit delivery.
The “mildly venomous” reptile had hitched a ride across continents, ending up in the produce section of an American grocery store inside a box of bananas last February 15.
Source: NH Fish and Game Law Enforcement Division and Operation Game Thief / Facebook.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Law Enforcement Division was promptly called to the scene. Conservation officer Griffin McKeown humorously recounted the event, "Luckily for us, he seemed to be pretty familiar with snakes," referring to the employee who first discovered the reptile.
The department, more accustomed to dealing with local wildlife or surrendered pets, had never encountered a venomous snake call like this before.
Employees at a Market Basket store in Manchester, New Hampshire, discovered a venomous snake inside a box of bananas. Image source: Guardian Australia / Youtube.
"We've had a few calls about pet surrenders of ball pythons and stuff like that, but never, never a venomous snake. That's definitely a first for me."
Thankfully, the ornate cat-eyed snake was healthy and unharmed. It was quickly rehomed with Rainforest Reptile Shows Inc., a local reptile rescue organization, ensuring the safety of both the snake and the public.
The incident was documented with a photo shared by the New Hampshire Fish and Game officers, capturing the unexpected visitor in all its glory.
But this isn't an isolated case. From Australia to Oklahoma, there have been numerous reports of snakes turning up where they're least expected, including in beds and under pillows.
Source: Snake Catcher Dan / Youtube.
Daniel Busstra posted on his social media page that he caught a “non-venomous common tree snake” which he pulled out from his pillowcase.
Meanwhile, Donna Bratschun from Oklahoma found herself in a similar situation when a snake bit her after it found its way under her pillow.
"It's one thing for it to get into your house; it's another thing for it to find your bed, climb [into] your bed and cuddle under your pillow," Bratschun said.
Also read: Think it's Just a Sprained Ankle? See What Terrifying Discovery Awaited This Girl at the ER
What to Do If You Find a Snake in Your Home
The charity Humane World for Animals advises that if you come across a snake indoors, you should remain calm and avoid startling the animal.
Gently place an empty container, like a pail or wastebasket, over the snake and weigh it down to secure the reptile until an experienced handler can take over.
Local animal control services, as well as fire and police departments, are often equipped to assist with such situations or can direct you to someone who can.
While the chances of finding a venomous snake in your grocery haul are slim, it's a good reminder to inspect imported goods, especially those from regions known for exotic wildlife.
Always check your fruits and vegetables before bringing them into your home, and if you spot something unusual, don't hesitate to reach out to professionals.
Recommended for you: Revolutionary update at your favorite beauty retailer will transform your shopping experience forever–Find out how!
Have you ever had a close encounter with wildlife in an unexpected place? Do you have any tips for dealing with surprise visitors of the reptilian kind? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
Last edited:
