The Oshkosh Police Department is investigating a previously captive snake that may be on the loose in the area of Menominee Park in Oshkosh.
On Tuesday, June 14, 2016 a large shed snake skin was found in Menominee Park. The incident was reported to the Oshkosh Police Department on Thursday, June 16, 2016. The Menominee Park Zoo does not have snakes, so it did not escape from the zoo. The shed snake skin is that of a Burmese Python. After consulting with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources the snake that would have shed this snake skin is over 10 feet long and probably weighs around 75 pounds.
At this time it is unknown if the shed snake skin was placed in the park by someone or if the snake was released and shed its skin in the park.
Burmese Pythons are not venomous. They can be found in the water or on land and are good swimmers. They are often found along shorelines, but can also be found in areas that collect heat; such as rock piles.
If anyone observes this snake do not approach it. Give it some distance and contact the Oshkosh Police Department. Once you have contacted police try to keep the snake in sight from a safe distance until the officers arrive.
If anyone has any information on who may have placed the shed snake skin or released a live snake in Menominee Park please contact the Oshkosh Police Department.
If you have information and would like to remain anonymous, please contact Winnebago County Wide Crime Stoppers at (920) 231-8477 or text IGOTYA and you crime tip to 274637 or go to www.winnebagocrimestoppers.org and submit your text via the web. You may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
This is not the snake in question but a similar snake. Photo courtesy www.dailymail.co.uk