Goodwill Donation workers had an unexpected surprise when they opened a box of donated books and discovered a four-foot-long snake slithering among them. The incident took place at a Goodwill store in Stafford, Virginia, as reported by the Stafford Sheriff’s Department on June 18.
The snake, identified as a basilisk, was swiftly removed by Animal Control Capt. J.A. Bice, with a touch of humor added by the police department’s social media post filled with Harry Potter references. Bice safely captured the snake and released it back into the wild.
The sheriff’s office did not disclose the specific species of the snake, but they speculated that it sought refuge from the heatwave in the cool confines of the donation box. The incident serves as a reminder that wildlife may seek shelter in unexpected places during extreme weather conditions.
In a photo shared by the sheriff’s office, Bice can be seen handling the snake with snake tongs to ensure everyone’s safety. The Goodwill employees were understandably startled by the unexpected visitor but handled the situation calmly until help arrived.
As temperatures rise, it is not uncommon for wildlife to venture into urban areas in search of shade and cooler temperatures. It is essential to exercise caution and contact local authorities if encountering wild animals in unexpected places to ensure their safe removal and release back into their natural habitat.
The incident at the Goodwill store serves as a lighthearted reminder of the importance of coexisting with wildlife, even in unexpected circumstances. With proper training and tools, professionals like Animal Control Capt. J.A. Bice can safely handle such situations and ensure the well-being of both humans and animals involved.