A 6ft boa constrictor is on the loose after slithering out of a bathroom window.
The pet snake, which is "as thick as a baseball bat", but not fully grown, escaped from a property in Barnfield, Wickford, Essex, on Friday.
Police described the animal, named Diego, as "potentially dangerous" but stressed it would only feed on small animals.
The force said its wildlife liaison officer is speaking with specialists and the RSPCA.
People were warned not to approach the snake but to alert police.
Specialist search officers combed the immediate area after being alerted and told people living nearby to be on their guard.
A spokesman said: "Essex Police cannot rule out a risk to the public, however our understanding is that this snake will only feed on small animals. Police have consulted with the chair of the Essex Reptiles and Amphibians Club who agrees that is it unlikely to be a threat to the public."
Diego's owner and reptile specialist Aaron Waymont, 22, said: "I'm expecting to see him appear any day soon because he'll be hungry.
"I've kept a lot of animals in my time, but I've never had one go missing before. He broke his glass and found his way out.
"I think he is going to be up in trees as they provide security. I'm very worried for Diego and for the public as well. I'm going out three times a day to look for him."
http://news.uk.msn.com/uk/articles.aspx?cp-documentid=154293424&ocid=today
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