Python Escapes Redding Fire Evacuations by Reptile Pet Store

A python escaped a pet store during a raging fire in the city of Redding in Northern California, causing more worries for residents facing the ravages of the Carr Fire. 

The 14-foot albino python was among 200 animals evacuated from the Redding Reptiles pet store. The store's owner, Sandra Dodge-Streich, told The Sacramento Bee she moved the reptiles to her home but had to move them again when her neighborhood was under evacuation.

The animals were moved to three other spots before Dodge-Streich found what she thought was a safe area in southeast Redding, but the female python, named Eres, was able to lift the lid off a tub that housed her to escape.

Eres is “not a harm to anybody,” Dodge-Streich told The Sacramento Bee, adding that the python is gentle and would only attack if it feels threatened. The snake is likely hiding in a shaded place and will move to a different area when it is dark, Dodge-Streich said.

“She only really likes chicken,” the python's owner told the Bee.

All other reptiles from the pet store are safe and under control. Redding Reptiles was not harmed by the fire, but is still under evacuation orders.

Animal control officers in Shasta County are aware of the python’s escape. Dodge-Streich is asking anyone with information on the snake to call 530-351-2403 or 530-226-0724.

Tens of thousands of evacuations have occurred in Northern California because of the Carr Fire, about 150 miles north of Sacramento. The blaze has killed six people and is one of nine major wildfires destroying areas throughout California.

The fire has expanded to nearly 150 square miles, destroying more than 850 structures.

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• Carr Fire Surges Into City of Redding, California