Python Spotted Near Lake Chabot

Photo of snake abandoned at Anthony Chabot Regional Park

Have you seen this snake? A hiker took this picture on February 13 on the side of Big Bear Trail which is on the northwest side of Anthony Chabot Regional Park. Park staff report this is a non-native snake and is presumed to be a ball python. Thankfully, the snake is not venomous and is not a threat to the public.

"The snake may be in danger as it is not native to our Bay Area climate, which is much colder than its native habitat of warm tropical forests or grasslands," a spokesperson from East Bay Regional Park District said.

While the snake has not been seen since before Valentine's Day, Park staff say they will keep an eye out for it. If they do find it, the snake is expected to be sent to the Oakland Zoo to make sure it's healthy and to figure out what to do with it.

If you happen to see the snake, you are asked to contact Anthony Chabot Regional Park staff at (510) 690-6676 or their non-emergency Public Safety line at (510) 881-1833. If possible, take a photo and map the sighting. It is safest for both visitors and the snake if you do not approach it or try to capture it, Park staff added.

"Abandoning any animals in Regional Parks is illegal. It can be harmful to both the native species of plants and animals in the parks, as well as the animal being released," an EBRPD spokesperson said.