Abandoned Ball Python Found in Manchester
Local police and animal control are seeking the owner of an injured snake found near a South Willow Street business.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Reptiles
Manchester police discovered an injured ball python near the McDonald's drive-thru on South Willow Street. Manchester Animal Control is currently seeking information from the public to identify the reptile's owner.
Why it matters
The rescue highlights the dangers of abandonment for captive exotic animals, which require specialized temperature-controlled environments to survive. Because ball pythons are ectothermic, exposure to Manchester's cooler outdoor temperatures caused the animal to become extremely cold.
The ball python was recovered with injuries to its eyes, tail, and scales after being found in a state of extreme cold. Authorities have confirmed that no individual has come forward to claim the animal since its discovery on South Willow Street.
The players
Manchester Animal Control
The local municipal department tasked with enforcing animal welfare laws and managing stray or abandoned pets.
The details
Ball pythons are non-venomous constrictors that rely on their surroundings to regulate body temperature, making them highly vulnerable to cold weather. Without an appropriate heat source or enclosure, these animals quickly suffer physical distress and immune system decline. Manchester Animal Control is currently providing care for the snake while investigating the circumstances of its abandonment.
Timeline
October 22, 2026: The discovery of the abandoned snake was reported.
The Home Front
The abandonment of reptiles like ball pythons often correlates with the high maintenance demands of long-term exotic pet ownership. This incident aligns with documented trends of surges in exotic animal surrenders when owners find specialized housing and veterinary costs unsustainable.
If you keep exotic reptiles, ensure your enclosure heating elements and backup power supplies are functioning to prevent temperature-related emergencies. Always contact local shelters or specialized rescue organizations if you are no longer able to provide proper care for your pet.
The takeaway
Abandoned exotic pets face immediate health crises when displaced from climate-controlled environments. If you possess information regarding this snake's origin, please contact Manchester Animal Control to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Further reading
Learn more about local standards for exotic animal care in the Reptiles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WMUR9.
