Florida teenager, Jack Cronin, recently faced off against a massive 15-foot python in an intense wrestling match during his first python-wrangling challenge. The slithery reptile had been missing for six months but was finally captured inside an Oklahoma City mobile home park. The albino golden child reticulated python, measuring 8 feet long and weighing 100 pounds, had disappeared earlier this year and was found last month at Burntwood Mobile Home Park, where it had vanished.
The occupants of one of the mobile homes discovered the snake in the early morning hours of October 25, as it sought warmth under some trash receptacles. They promptly placed the python into a laundry basket and taped it shut before notifying park maintenance. The snake was then safely handed over to the Oklahoma Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary, after park maintenance contacted them.
Contrary to previous reports that the snake was 13 feet long and had been feasting on cats in the park, the owners of the rescue center clarified that the snake had not eaten since it was in the wild. Upon examination, it was revealed that the python had an upper respiratory infection, some scuffs and cuts, and mites. Additionally, it was in the midst of shedding, which can be a challenging process for snakes.
The road to recovery for the python is expected to take about five to six months, and the timing of its rescue was fortunate, as a significant temperature drop was imminent. The snake would not have survived the cold weather, as pythons do not hibernate in nature. The owners of the Oklahoma Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary expressed gratitude for catching the snake before the cold front hit.
The rescue center is currently seeking a name for the python and has reached out to its social media followers for suggestions through a poll on Facebook. The ultimate goal is to rehabilitate the python and find it a knowledgeable and caring forever home, where it can live a comfortable and peaceful life. Albino pythons typically live around 20 to 30 years in captivity.
Jack Cronin’s courageous encounter with the python highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and responsible management of exotic animal species. The Oklahoma Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary’s dedication to rehabilitating these animals is commendable, ensuring their well-being and providing them with a chance for a better life.
