Albuquerque: Giant Rattlesnake Evacuates Downtown Zoo

Albuquerque: Giant Rattlesnake Evacuates Downtown ZooAlbuquerque: Giant Rattlesnake Evacuates Downtown Zoo Residents of Albuquerque were on high alert on Friday after a massive rattlesnake escaped from the downtown Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. The snake, identified as a western diamondback, is one of the largest venomous snakes in North America, reaching up to 7 feet in length. Zoo officials first noticed the snake missing from its enclosure at around 4:00 AM. A full-scale search ensued, involving Zoo staff, Albuquerque Police Department officers, and New Mexico Game and Fish personnel. Around 10:00 AM, the snake was spotted lurking near a maintenance shed at the northeast corner of the Zoo. Zoo staff and police officers attempted to contain the snake, but it slithered away into the nearby vegetation. The Zoo and the surrounding area were immediately evacuated, and residents within a half-mile radius were advised to stay indoors and secure their pets. Authorities closed roads and set up a perimeter around the search area. “The safety of our community is our top priority,” said Zoo Director Jerry Eisenhart. “We are doing everything in our power to locate the snake and return it to a secure enclosure.” The New Mexico Game and Fish sent in a team of snake experts to assist in the search. They used thermal imaging cameras, drones, and dogs in an effort to pinpoint the snake’s location. As the search continued into the afternoon, residents expressed concern over the potential danger posed by the escaped reptile. “I’m not letting my kids go outside until this snake is found,” said one mother of two. Around 3:00 PM, the snake was finally located hiding under a pile of leaves in a vacant lot about a quarter-mile from the Zoo. Experts carefully captured the snake using specialized equipment. The rattlesnake was transported back to the Zoo and checked for any injuries. It was found to be in good health and was returned to its enclosure. Zoo officials praised the efforts of the search teams and the public for their cooperation. “We are grateful for the swift response and collaboration of all involved,” said Eisenhart. “We are relieved to have the snake back in a secure location.” The Zoo reopened to the public on Saturday, and all roads and areas that had been evacuated were cleared. Residents were advised to remain vigilant and report any sightings of snakes or other wildlife to authorities.