On Monday evening, Brian Purdy, who holds a Venomous Reptile Permit, contacted the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to inform investigators that his 24-inch long cobra had escaped its enclosure that night.
After an initial search by Ocala Police Department and Marion County Fire Rescue, nearby residents were notified of the escape. Canvassing efforts to inform area residents are ongoing.
The FWC has confirmed that search efforts are ongoing for the missing suphan cobra in the vicinity of the 900 block of NE Ninth Street in Ocala.
Residents in the area are urged to use caution until this snake has been captured. Although reclusive by nature, cobras are highly venomous and will strike out if they feel threatened. The snake is about 2 feet in length, with distinctive multicolor markings.
Members of the public should not approach or attempt to capture this snake. The FWC is investigating this incident.
If you see this snake, remain at a safe distance and immediately call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at (888)-404-3922 (FWCC) or *FWC or #FWC on cellphones.