Nine-foot python seized from Chilliwack home: BCCOS

A Burmese Python has been seized from a home in Chilliwack, where the 9-foot-long animal was being kept as a pet.

Acting Sgt. Alicia Buchanan with the BC Conservation Officer Service says the illegal animal was reported through a call to its RAPP (Report All poachers and Polluters) line.

A search warrant was executed on Tuesday to recover the reptile, as part of an ongoing investigation into the unlawful possession of the python.

Buchanan says it’s still unclear how the python came to be in the home, but under the Controlled Alien Species act, it’s illegal for anyone to posses the animal without a special permit.

“Doesn’t matter the size, you can’t possess it,” she said.

While the investigation continues, Buchanan says it’s too early to tell what fines the homeowner could face.

“There could be violation tickets, it could be a case that goes straight to court through a report to Crown Counsel, those are our two options,” she said.

This isn’t the first time conservation officers in B.C. have had to seize an exotic animal.

“There have been cases historically in B.C. involving cheetahs, tigers, alligators…” Buchanan said.

There are approximately 1,200 animals listed as Controlled Alien Species in B.C.

For anyone interested in exotic species, Buchanan says if going to the zoo isn’t enough, she recommends doing your homework.

“All of this provincial legislation can be found online. If you’re looking into getting a unique pet, call around, call our RAPP line, ask questions to conservation officers,” she said.

“Do your research, educate yourself, before you get yourself into this situation.”