Suburban Slitherer: The Unexpected Tale of a Runaway Python

In a surprising turn of events, a Geneva woman found herself face-to-face with an unexpected visitor in her car – a four-foot-long ball python. This unusual encounter, which unfolded in the heart of the suburbs, has captivated the local community and shed light on the unexpected challenges wildlife control professionals can face.

Uncovering the Unexpected: A Suburban Reptile Rescue

A Slithery Surprise

When a frantic call came in from a Geneva resident, wildlife control expert Brad Lundsteen knew he was in for an unusual task. The woman had reported a large snake slithering deep into the undercarriage of her Toyota sedan, and it refused to come out. Lundsteen, a renowned wildlife catcher, quickly responded to the scene, prepared to tackle the unexpected challenge.As Lundsteen approached the vehicle, he was met with a surprising sight. The snake, a ball python, had wedged itself tightly into the car's metal frame, making it a formidable foe. "The minute the snake saw her, [it went] right up the undercarriage of the car and it was gone," Lundsteen recounted, describing the snake's swift and elusive movements.

A Stubborn Serpent

Lundsteen's expertise was put to the test as he worked to extract the stubborn snake from its hiding place. The ball python had a firm grip on the car's internal components, refusing to budge. "It was wedged in a space this tight, wrapped around some parts," Lundsteen said, highlighting the snake's tenacious hold.Despite his reputation as a skilled wildlife catcher, Lundsteen faced a daunting task. "These guys, when they grab on, they are so strong," he explained, describing the python's impressive strength and determination. It took Lundsteen a full half-hour of careful maneuvering and gentle coaxing to finally extract the snake from its hiding spot.

An Unexpected Visitor

The discovery of the ball python in the suburban setting raised several questions. Ball pythons are not native to Illinois, and their presence in the area was highly unusual. Lundsteen's investigation revealed that the snake was likely a former pet that had been released or had escaped its owner's care."I know the snake didn't come from here obviously, so it just goes to show animals do get in and hitch rides," Lundsteen said, highlighting the unexpected ways in which non-native species can find their way into suburban environments. The recent purchase of the woman's vehicle from out-of-state further supported the theory that the snake had been transported to the area.

A Reptilian Rescue Mission

With the snake safely removed from the car, Lundsteen's work was far from over. He recognized the need to find the python a permanent and suitable home, as it was not equipped to thrive in the local ecosystem. Lundsteen reached out to nearby reptile rescue organizations, determined to ensure the snake's well-being and prevent any further disruptions to the suburban community.The story of the unexpected python encounter quickly became the talk of the town, with the Daily Herald newspaper documenting the incident on its front page. The unusual event served as a reminder of the diverse challenges faced by wildlife control professionals and the importance of their work in maintaining the delicate balance between human and animal habitats.As Lundsteen continues his efforts to find the ball python a new, safe home, the community remains captivated by the unexpected tale of a suburban slitherer, a reminder that even in the heart of the suburbs, the unexpected can always lurk just around the corner.