South Carolina mechanics discover giant boa constrictor in car engine and are working to find it a home
Two mechanics in South Carolina found an 8-foot-long albino boa constrictor in the engine of a Ford Focus on Tuesday.
While working on a car in Myrtle Beach, Beach Automotive employees Matt Trudeau and Tony Galli found a giant snake wriggling under the hood.
"A guy came in because his check engine light was on," Trudeau said. "When I went to search under the car hood, I stepped back immediately. I was shocked and lost for words."
Trudeau contacted the car owner and inquired about any pet snakes in the neighborhood.
"The owner of the car was confused and had no idea how a snake got into his engine."
The local mechanics contacted Russell Cavender, aka the "Snake Chaser," to safely remove the serpent. Cavender slowly and carefully guided the snake out.
"I have found many many things underneath the hood of cars. Possums, Squirrels, rats, and several snakes, but never an 8-foot albino boa constrictor."
Cavender informed Trudeau that the serpent was unwell and required care.
"Cavender told us the snake was underweight and needed to be cared for," Trudeau shared. "After he is healthy, we will find him a home."
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Trudeau added that the giant serpent did not, in fact, cause the engine light problem.
What is a boa constrictor?
Boa constrictors are non-venomous snakes that inhabit Central and South America. These magnificent creatures can grow up to 13 feet in length and weigh over 100 pounds, which makes them some of the largest snakes on the planet. According to the Smithsonian National Zoo & Conservation Biology, they are known as giants of the snake world.
The US Association of Reptile Keepers in Florida reports that it is legal to own this species of reptile as a pet, and even a popular choice among reptile owners.