‘Do not approach’: Warning as exotic animal on the loose in major city

Authorities have warned residents to steer clear of an exotic animal spotted underneath a bridge in a major city.

Residents have been warned to keep their distance after a boa constrictor was spotted on the loose in Sydney.

The uninvited slithering guest was filmed under the Tom’s Ugly Bridge in Sylvania, Sydney’s south on Friday, with footage uploaded to the suburb’s local Facebook page.

The snake, believed to be a red-tailed boa constrictor, is an exotic animal not native to Australia, and despite not being venomous, they pose a significant risk to the native wildlife.

The animals are typically found in Brazil, and it is believed the reptile is an escaped pet.

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

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

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.”