WHITTLESEA LEADER (Australia) 08 July 08 Pet python pinched in Epping
An Epping man has made an impassioned plea for the safe return of his pet python.
Jason said he was extremely worried for the 3m Queensland coastal carpet python after it was stolen from his Roxburgh Court home.
He said there would be a reward for the snake's safe return.
"Out of everything that was stolen from the house the python is the one thing I had a real attachment for," Jason said.
"There is no price that you could put on its value.
"I would definitely offer a reward for the snake's safe return."
The 12-year-old python was stolen along with a large amount of electrical and household goods.
Jason said the family pet would die unless given expert care.
"It is a Queensland snake and it won't survive in the Victoria winter," he said.
"It needs to be kept in a thermostatically-controlled environment.
"If it's not, it will possibly go into hibernation and die."
The snake is dark greyish-green with black-edged pale blotches enclosing yellow spots and markings.
Its belly is a creamy yellow.
Det Sen-Constable Paul Hattenfels, of Whittlesea CIU, said police believed there were links between the raid on Jason's home - some time between June 27 and June 29 - and another in McFarlane Cres.
Information to Det Sen-Constable Hattenfels on 9407 3350.
Pet python pinched in Epping