A snake is on the loose in West London, with a council warning tenants to remain on high alert.
The California kingsnake is reported to be on the loose after escaping from its owner’s flat in Drake Court, in the Goldhawk Road area of Shepherd’s Bush.
People living in the block of flats were sent warning letters from Hammersmith and Fulham Council after the serpent slid to freedom on Monday.
The local authority said the matter is “being dealt with as best as we can under the circumstances.”
One worried resident told London24: “When I got home, there was a home-made sign up in the lobby warning about the escapee.
“I thought it was a joke, but then when I opened my front door I found the letter from the council.
“I can’t imagine this snake is a terrible threat, but probably kids and pets are being kept extra safe.”
The letter from the council said: “Please try not to worry about the situation as it’s in hand and we hope that the snake is found and housed so not to cause any further panic and worry.
“We are aware that this is an unacceptable situation, however, the matter is being dealt with as best as we can under the circumstances.”
The Californian kingsnake is nonvenomous and are among the most popular snakes kept in captivity around the world.
Last year an escaped snake was discovered in Selson Wood, Croydon, metres away from a primary school.
