Boa constrictor on the loose in Sydney sparks warning to residents

A boa constrictor believed to be an escaped pet has been caught on camera beneath a bridge in Sydney’s south, prompting warnings from authorities to keep a safe distance and protect local wildlife.

Authorities have urged residents to steer clear after a boa constrictor was spotted on the loose in Sydney’s south.

The large snake was captured on video beneath Tom Uglys Bridge in Sylvania on Friday, with the footage later shared on a local community Facebook page.

The python, believed to be a red-tailed boa constrictor — a species native to South America — is not venomous but still poses a threat to Australia’s native wildlife.

The boa constrictor was seen under Tom’s Ugly Bridge. Picture: Facebook

Typically found in countries like Brazil, the exotic reptile is suspected to be an escaped pet, as such species are not native to Australia and are illegal to own without a licence.

A NSW Department of Primary Industries spokesman said they were aware of the loose reptile.

The snake is likely a pet that escaped from its enclosure. Picture: Facebook

“The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) was recently alerted to a sighting of a Boa constrictor near the Sylvania Boat Ramp,” the spokesman said per 9News.

“NSW DPIRD is calling on the local community to report any suspected sightings of the animal.”

The public have been warned to not approach the snake.

“If safe to do so, take a photo and contact us so that we can identify and attempt to capture the snake.”

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Originally published as Boa constrictor on the loose in Sydney sparks warning to residents