In celebration of the Year of the Snake, a ball python measuring approximately 70 cm in length was found and received by the Hua Tan Branch of Changhua County Fire Department. The snake was then sent to Changhua County Animal Disease Control Center. An announcement has been made that if no owner claims it by February 25th, the center will proceed with a lottery for adoption.
According to reports, this ball python has beautiful markings and several people have expressed interest in adopting it to usher in good luck during this auspicious year.
The incident began on February 12th when local residents reported finding a large snake on Xixing East Street in Changhua City. The fire department immediately dispatched an external contractor who confirmed that it was indeed a ball python (Python regius). The snake had already been captured by locals and was handed over to Hua Tan Branch before being transferred to the animal control center.
The Animal Disease Control Center noted that ball pythons are nonvenomous snakes native to Africa, typically growing between one to two meters long and known for their docile nature. They are popular pet snakes due to their manageable size and temperament.
The typical coloration of ball pythons features black as a base with circular patterns on their backs. Their bellies are usually white or cream-colored with occasional fine black markings. Through genetic selection breeding, various color morphs have emerged, making them more vibrant and influencing their market price based on rarity and appearance.
Although they are common pets, during winter months when temperatures drop significantly, these snakes often become less active or enter dormancy states—making them more likely to be found abandoned or escaped from owners' care at this time.
This marks the first time for such an adoption process involving reptiles at the center. Given its attractive pattern combined with it being the Year of the Snake, many people are eager to participate in potential lotteries if multiple applicants register before February 25th.
