A man was arrested after authorities in a Sydney suburb say he released two pythons onto a public street. The incident was noted by Guard in their reporting.
The reptiles, Bagel and Mango, each measuring around 2.5 meters, had disappeared from a residence the prior week. The owner of the snakes claimed on social media that the animals were tossed outside in a moment of anger during a dispute with a former partner amid a separation, a claim that prompted concern about the well-being of the pets and public safety.
The owner stated that the two snakes had been abandoned, stressing that domesticated snakes typically rely on a controlled environment and do not survive well in outdoor conditions. He added that he was deeply worried about their welfare and urged anyone who might see them to contact authorities with any sightings.
NSW Police confirmed on October 28 that a 25-year-old man had been charged in connection with the episode. It was disclosed that the snakes had initially been placed in a box near the house entrance, but searches later revealed they were no longer inside the enclosure.
Investigators began examining the case after the reptile’s owner reported the incident to the police. He later alleged that his former partner had been detained on October 27. The charges include actions that could be described as destroying or damaging another person’s property, in addition to potential offences related to the welfare of the animals.
As of now, Bagel and Mango have not been located. Reptile experts note that the climate in New South Wales differs significantly from the habitats these snakes are accustomed to in their homeland, which could complicate their chances of survival if they remain in the wild.
Experts emphasize that the local environment may not provide the necessary food sources or appropriate temperatures for such tropical species. One herpetologist explained that the current conditions could leave the snakes in a precarious state, with the risk of illness or malnutrition increasing if a food source cannot be found. The expert also noted that snakes bred and kept as domestic pets often experience heightened stress when released into unfamiliar surroundings, which can lead to unpredictable behavior and greater danger to nearby residents.
The situation underscores broader concerns about the handling of exotic pets and the potential legal consequences when owners fail to follow proper procedures for relinquishing or rehoming animals. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the abandonment and the subsequent actions taken by those involved, while residents are reminded to report any sightings of large snakes and to remain cautious in the areas where these animals could be hiding.
A separate note from the local police indicated that the community should remain vigilant, particularly in urban and suburban pockets where stray exotic pets have been reported in the past. The ongoing search for Bagel and Mango reflects the challenges in tracking non-native wildlife that may have adapted to local surroundings, posing risks to people and other animals until their status is clarified.
New updates are expected as investigators review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and assess the potential implications for animal welfare regulations in the area. In the meantime, residents are urged to avoid handling unfamiliar snakes and to contact emergency services if they encounter one at close range, or if there is any immediate danger to property or people.