Authorities Confiscate 13-Foot Burmese Python from Upstate NY Home

NEW HARTFORD, NY—Environmental authorities have confiscated a massive 13-foot Burmese python from a New Hartford resident who was illegally keeping it in a small tank. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) responded to a tip on August 28, leading to the discovery of the 80-pound snake in a tank far too small for its growing size.

Environmental Conservation Officer Jeff Hull was dispatched to the home and found the python, which measured 13 feet 2 inches long, confined to a 4-to-5-foot tank. While the snake was reportedly in good health, it still grew and required a more appropriate environment. The DEC acted swiftly, relocating the python to the Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo in Rome, NY, which has the necessary permits to house such wildlife.

The python’s owner admitted being unprepared for how rapidly the snake had grown. As a result, he was issued tickets for illegally possessing wildlife as a pet and keeping dangerous wildlife without the required permit.

Popular but Illegal in NY

Burmese pythons, native to Southeast Asia, have become popular pets in the United States. However, they are classified as dangerous wildlife in New York State and require special permits to own. The species can grow as long as 16 feet, making proper care and housing challenging for many owners.

In this case, the snake, described as an albino Burmese python with a distinctive yellow coloration and arrowhead-shaped markings on its head, has now been safely rehomed at the zoo. Burmese pythons are notorious for their invasive presence in Florida, where their size and predatory nature harm native wildlife.

Authorities continue to remind the public that owning such species without the proper permits is illegal and can pose significant risks to the animal and the community.

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