Python on the loose in Verdun, police seek public's help

Montreal police and the borough of Verdun are asking for the public's help in findinga 4-foot python that has been missing since last week.

The pet reptile, which escaped from a private residence, was last seen Monday evening around the Bleu Blanc Rouge arena between 1st Avenue and WillibrordAvenue. A resident reported seeing the snake but it slithered away.

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Policebelieve the snake has taken refugebehind a brick wall in the area.

An animal retrieval company is trying to pinpoint the snake's location.

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Police say the python is not venomous: the snakeeats small rodentsand isnot dangerous to humans. Anyone who sees it is urged not to touch it but to call 911 or the neighbourhoodpolice stationat 514-280-0116.