A 10 foot diamond python is on the loose in Orange, but the message to residents is that they have nothing to worry about.
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Monty escaped his residence after his owner let him roam his apartment while he was away on holidays, most likely escaping out a window.
Government licensed snake catcher at Orange Snake Service Jake Hansen has received several worried calls from residents since he reported the missing snake on Facebook on Wednesday, but said residents should not be alarmed.
"It's too cold for the snake to be interested in food because they need sufficient warmth to be able to digest food items," he said.
"If it did, I've seen them eat small possums or rabbits.
"Diamond Pythons are known to be quite placid but can give you a nasty bite if you attempt to pick one up."
Mr Hansen said that there's no need to be alarmed and no one is in danger, even small children.
He said that diamond pythons are commonly found on the North Shore of Sydney and there are very few cases of anyone being bitten or family dogs going missing.
"I've seen some pretty big ones in Sydney," he said.
"Possums, rabbits and perhaps chickens are at risk but I don't think dogs are on the menu for this snake."
Mr Hansen said the python is most likely in the vicinity of the old hospital between Margaret Street and Anson Street and reminded residents that if they do find the snake, to contact him directly on 0414945124.
He said Monty the python has cream, black and dark green colouring and is most likely immobile, hiding somewhere warm like a roof to escape the cold weather.
bryson.ferreira@fairfaxmedia.com.au
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