A boa constrictor was found under a seat at the downtown Athens outdoor theater of “Dora Stratou” on Sunday morning.
People passing by theater in the Filopappou area spotted the snake, which caused panic, until it was eventually rescued by the Wildlife Protection and Care Association (ANIMA).
The boa constrictor was described as ‘cold and dehydrated’ by ANIMA, and representatives emphasized that they will keep the snake until it recovers, and will then find it a home.
That being said, ANIMA highlighted two recurring issues brought to light by this incident in a post on social media.
The association said, “The issues raised are at least twofold: first, people who purchase such animals often fail to ensure they have the infrastructure to keep them safe, and second, the collection and care of such animals should fall under the responsibilities of the municipality’s urban wildlife department, which currently considers only dogs as urban wildlife. As a result, ANIMA is left to shoulder this duty as well.”
