A man jogging on Dec. 28 at Robinson Preserve in northwest Bradenton received a fright when what he thought was a fallen branch turned out to be a snake.
The 7-foot-long red tail boa constrictor was captured by Manatee County employees and Damen Hurd of Bradenton Beach-based Wildlife Inc.
Hurd, who took possession of the snake, said the boa constrictor likely was a pet that either escaped or was abandoned.
While the preserve serves as a habitat for native plants and wildlife, snakes like the boa constrictor, which is not native to Florida, are prohibited.
“It’s illegal to release pets and other animals in the preserve,” Hurd said, adding that non-native animals can harm the ecosystem and other wildlife in the preserve.
Wildlife Inc. may use the snake in educational programs or place it with another organization.
The boa constrictor was transferred Dec. 30 from Wildlife Inc. in Bradenton Beach to Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E., Bradenton, where the organization maintains a wildlife care facility.
— Kristin Swain