A boa constrictor was seen under a seat at the “Dora Stratou” theater in Filopappou, Sunday morning.
It is a boa constrictor, which was under a seat, ”frozen and dehydrated” as reported by the Association for the Protection and Care of Wildlife “ANIMA”.
As “ANIMA” officials emphasize, they will keep him as long as necesary, until he comes back, and then they will find him a home.
This incident is not recorded as the only one, as iguanas have recently been found in Tritsis Park and also in Areos Park.
“I was surprised. During the lesson, two parents came and informed us that there is a snake in the stands.we instantly ran to see what was happening. I called the fire department who referred us to a herpetological company because it was found in its natural habitat. With the help of a mother, we asked ”ANIMA” who came in about 45 minutes and freed the animal”, he emphasized first.
“The vet told us that the animal was probably abandoned and “from the town”, and that it was not found by accident in Filopappou. He was dehydrated and sedated when taken out. The children wanted to see him”, said mr. Let’s go.
Title: Understanding Urban Wildlife: An Interview with Wildlife Expert dr. Helen Markos on the Recent Boa Constrictor incident
Q1: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Markos.To start, can you tell us about the recent sighting of a boa constrictor in the Dora Stratou theater in Filopappou? What does this tell us about urban wildlife interactions?
Dr. Markos: Thank you for having me. The appearance of a boa constrictor in a densely populated area like Filopappou is quite unusual but not entirely unexpected. As we’ve seen, abandoned exotic pets can sometimes escape or be released into the wild, which leads to startling encounters in urban settings. This incident highlights the need for responsible pet ownership and the importance of respecting wildlife habitats.
Q2: The boa constrictor was found “frozen and dehydrated.” what implications does this have for urban wildlife and abandoned pets?
Dr. Markos: This heartbreaking scenario underscores the consequences of abandonment. A boa constrictor, especially in a dehydrated state, indicates that it was likely left to fend for itself without the necessary care it requires to survive. This not only poses a risk to the animal but also to the local ecosystem, where such non-native species can disrupt the balance. It stresses the importance of education around the commitment involved in owning exotic pets.
Q3: As mentioned, other exotic species like iguanas have also been found in local parks. What trends do you observe regarding the presence of exotic wildlife in urban areas?
Dr. Markos: We’re observing a concerning trend in many urban areas where non-native species, such as iguanas and now this boa constrictor, are increasingly reported. These incidents frequently enough correlate with a rise in the popularity of exotic pets—especially during the pandemic when many turned to unique animal companions. However, such pets can become more than their owners can handle, leading to unfortunate abandonments and sightings.
Q4: What advice would you give to pet owners regarding the responsibility of owning exotic animals?
Dr. Markos: First and foremost, potential pet owners must thoroughly research the specific needs and behaviors of exotic animals before acquiring them. It’s imperative to consider if they can provide a suitable surroundings and care for the animal. If at any point they feel they can no longer care for the pet, they should seek help from rescue organizations like “ANIMA” instead of abandoning the animal. Organizations are equipped to manage such situations and find proper homes for these animals.
Q5: How can individuals contribute to the protection of both urban wildlife and exotic pets?
Dr. Markos: Individuals can play a significant role by advocating for responsible pet ownership, supporting local wildlife conservation initiatives, and educating themselves and others about the potential consequences of releasing pets into the wild. Furthermore, reporting sightings of exotic animals to local wildlife organizations helps ensure these creatures can be rescued and rehabilitated effectively.
Q6: Lastly, what steps can municipalities take to address the issues of abandoned exotic pets in urban settings?
Dr. Markos: Municipalities should implement robust educational programs that raise awareness about the responsibilities of exotic pet ownership, coupled with regulations that discourage abandonment. They can also collaborate with wildlife organizations to create a clear path for surrendering pets that can no longer be cared for, ensuring these animals receive the proper care and rehabilitation they deserve.
Conclusion: Thank you, Dr. Markos, for sharing your insights on this crucial issue. It is through awareness and education that we can create a more harmonious coexistence between urban wildlife and our communities.