Rescue group in south Mississippi saves four giant Burmese pythons after owner’s death

KILN, Miss. (VDN) — The Gulf Coast Reptile Refuge and Tortoise Sanctuary rescued four Burmese pythons Friday, August 8 after receiving an urgent call from the Oktibbeha County Humane Society in Starkville.

The snakes’ owner had died, and the animals faced euthanasia if no one could remove them immediately. Refuge staff traveled more than eight hours round trip to meet humane society workers, who had driven two hours north of their shelter to secure the snakes.

The pythons, ranging from about 10 feet to more than 15 feet long, weigh up to 200 pounds each. Some are obese from overfeeding. Refuge staff said the snakes were “not thrilled” after the trip but were placed in large crates overnight until proper enclosures could be built.

“This was completely unexpected, but we could not let these guys lose their lives simply because their owner passed,” the organization said in a statement on their Facebook page.

The rescue is asking for donations to help cover the cost of building large enclosures and veterinary care for other animals in their care. Contributions can be made via CashApp ($gcrrinc), Venmo (@GCReptileRefuge), PayPal (gcreptilerefuge@icloud.com) or by mail to Gulf Coast Reptile Refuge Inc., P.O. Box 1284, Kiln, MS 39556. Donations are tax deductible.

The refuge plans to work toward placing some of the snakes with reputable zoos, organizations or experienced large-constrictor keepers.