Authorities in the Netherlands are on high alert after an “extremely venomous” green mamba snake measuring two meters in length escaped from its owner’s possession. Police in the southern Dutch city of Tilburg were alerted to the snake’s disappearance on Monday evening by its owner, prompting a public warning.
Residents in the area have been cautioned to remain indoors and are strongly advised against attempting to capture the serpent, which has been described as “very dangerous” by the police. The authorities have issued a wanted poster featuring a mugshot of the coiled green mamba.
Green mambas, which are native to the coastal regions of southern East Africa, are notorious for their extremely venomous bites. The Pretoria Zoo notes that this species can deliver rapidly fatal outcomes in as little as 30 minutes.
While the search for the snake is underway, authorities are taking precautions to ensure public safety. Several experts in the country have been contacted to aid in locating the snake within its owner’s home as quickly as possible. The search operation will also involve the use of a sniffer dog.
Despite the potential danger posed by the green mamba, authorities have offered some reassurance. They note that the snake is unlikely to venture outside into the chilly Dutch winter. The green mamba prefers dark and warm spaces and is expected to be passive if it finds a suitable hiding spot.
Nonetheless, residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution, and in the event of a snakebite, immediate medical attention is essential to mitigate the risks associated with the snake’s venom.