The python that disappeared more than one month ago from a home in Verdun has been found.
The 120-cm snake disappeared in late August, escaping by sliding through the open door of the owner's home.
Animal control officials spent several days tracking the snake and thought they had located it underneath a neighbour's porch, but when they used a plumbing camera to double-check, they found it was missing.
The snake was found by a neighbour on Monday afternoon, just a few metres away from the house where it lived. He put a box over the snake, then called 3-1-1 and told them what he had found.
The snake was weak and cold, likely due to a lack of food, and was taken to a veterinary hospital.
Humans were never in danger from the python. It is not venomous and feeds mostly on rodents.
Boas and pythons were banned in Verdun under a local bylaw, but with the amendments made to the city-wide bylaw last week, the owner of Lady will be allowed to keep her if she pays for the services rendered.
Wildlife technicians said people who buy snakes should invest in the proper equipment, including a locking terrarium.
