Compost boa from Herford has found a new home - the origin remains mysterious!

Compost boa from Herford has found a new home - the origin remains mysterious!

An unusual incident caused a stir in Herford: A 58-year-old woman discovered a two-meter-long boa constrictor in a garden while turning her compost. At first she thought the snake was a large branch, but the distinctive scale markings quickly told her that she was dealing with a living reptile. Loud nadr.de She immediately alerted the police, who were quickly on the scene together with a reptile keeper from Herford Zoo.

The boa, which measured around 2.50 meters and was apparently unharmed, was taken to a quarantine station. However, experts found that the animal was dehydrated and weak, indicating that it may have been out in the wild for several days or even weeks. “It is unclear how the snake got into the compost heap,” reports nw.de. The agency suspects the boa either escaped or may have been intentionally released, as compost heaps provide an ideal microclimate for snakes.

Moving the Compost Boa

Last week the boa moved to its new home. The private owner, who already has experience with reptiles, took delivery of the animal. Patrick Albrecht, spokesman for the Herford district administration, confirmed that the authority remains responsible for the reptile. The move took place as part of a transfer agreement that is valid for six months. During this time the original owner has the opportunity to come forward. Until then, the Herford district remains the owner of the snake.

The snake issue has not only caused a stir in Herford, but also raises larger questions. Police have launched an investigation to determine the snake's origins, but so far no legitimate owner has come forward. “The keeping conditions for exotic animals require responsibility, and in Germany keeping boa constrictors is generally legal, provided that there is evidence of their acquisition,” say experts. This goes hand in hand with reports of escaped or abandoned reptiles that keep turning up in German cities.

As disturbing as the story of the compost boa may be, there are practical tips for people. If you find a snake, you should stay calm, keep your distance and inform the police or an animal park. In this case, too, the welfare of animals and the responsibility of animal owners are central issues that affect us all.

The case shows that surprises can always happen even in everyday life. And while the boa now has a new home, the question of its origin remains open for the time being and sheds light on the responsibility that owners of exotic animals must bear.