Python Found in Newaygo County Barn: Police Rescue Exotic Snake

There are a lot of things you expect to see in a West Michigan barn: horses, hay bales, barn cats, maybe even a stray raccoon. But an actual python? Not something you'd normally stumble across in Newaygo County.

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A Surprise Visitor on Thornapple Avenue

That’s the exact surprise a local homeowner got off Thornapple Avenue near 96th recently. Now, I love animals as much as anyone, but if I walked into my barn and made eye contact with an exotic reptile, I’d be backing out real slowly and calling for back-up immediately. And would probably still be screaming.

Deputy Flora Steps Up to the Challenge

Luckily, the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office got the call. Word is the deputies were actually fighting over who got the honor of handling the snake! The department says its "the call everyone wanted."

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In the end, Deputy Flora came out on top. She stepped right up like a total boss, safely wrangling the ball python with a big smile on her face.

The snake then spent the night at the County Administration Building. The Sheriff's Offices says that on Tuesday they'll tackle the fun task of locating it inside the building and getting it to an exotic animal rescue, joking, "We're just hoping Deputy Flora remembers where she put it!"

👇BELOW: 12 Animals You Must Report If You Hit Them in Michigan 👇

How Does a Python Get into a Michigan Barn?

So, how on earth does a python end up chilling in a Michigan barn? Since they are definitely not native around here, odds are it is a pet that escaped or got dumped. There is also a chance it was an accidental hitchhiker, catching a ride up north inside a vehicle, cargo shipment, or farm equipment.

Either way, I am just glad this slithery traveler is headed somewhere safe. Hats off to the Newaygo County Sheriff's Office for a job well done!

12 Animals You Must Report If You Hit Them in Michigan

Ever hit an animal while driving in Michigan? Well, it turns out some of them need to be reported. We'll break down the animals you have to call in if you hit them. It’s not just about doing the right thing; it’s also about avoiding any legal issues.

So, who do you call? If you hit one of these animals, you’ll want to contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or local law enforcement. If it’s an actual emergency, call 911; otherwise, just dial the non-emergency number. They’ll handle the situation and make sure everything's squared away. Just don’t forget to report it.

Gallery Credit: Tony LaBrie