Latest local news, weather and high school sports for Tri-State area

UPDATED: September 23 at 10:30 a.m.

That six foot boa constrictor is still on the loose on Quincy's north side.

The snake went missing three days ago in the 12th and Highland Lane area.

Animal Control officer Mike Goehl tells KHQA the snake is most likely still in the house, but until the snake is found, he can't be 100% sure where it is.

If it has gotten out of the house, chances are it's not going to go far because of the chilly weather.

It's still a good idea to watch small pets and children in this area as a precaution.

If you see the snake, do not approach it, instead, call 911.

Officer Goehl also says the owner of the snake does not have the proper license to have that type of animal as a pet.

The owner could face fines depending on how the investigation turns out.

At Boa-Care.com we learned that for most Boa Constrictors, including the Common Boa and Red Tailed Boa an ambient temperature (controlled by thermostat) of around 78 – 80 F should be provided at night, rising to 85 – 90 F during the day.

Our Facebook users have chimed in with comments about the missing snake.

Gina And Jeff Allen posted, "It is probably not going to go far, it is cold for that snake outside, it will probably get under a hood of a car by the motor, or somewhere warm"

Maggie Dowling said, "Well they don't do well at all when it's a little colder outside."

Join in the conversation by liking us on Facebook here.

-----------

The Quincy Police Department received information that a six foot Red Tailed Boa Constrictor is possibly loose on the City’s north side.

The snake’s owner reported the snake missing but believes it to be located within the home. 

As a precautionary measure the Quincy Police Department is informing residents in the area of Highland Lane on the City’s north side, of the missing snake.

 
Click on the Google Map for an interactive map.

Although Boa Constrictors are not normally aggressive, residents are advised to be cautious at all times.  If located, please back away from it and contact 9-1-1 immediately, anytime of the day or night.  Do not try to capture or attack it, but if possible from a position of safety, monitor its movements until authorities arrive.

As indicated by the name, a Boa Constrictor kills prey by constricting and squeezing it to death. Small animals and children are at the most risk and should be monitored by an adult at all times when outside.  In spite of its size, this Boa could fit into a relatively small space and can form a small coil.

The owner of any constricting snake of 6 feet or longer must have a permit issued by the City of Quincy.  For more information on the ordinance regarding restricted animals, please refer to chapter 22 of the City of Quincy’s Codebook, under the City Clerk’s webpage at http://www.quincyil.gov/CityClerk/Codebook/home.htm