Hunt for 9ft python on loose after Cambridge house escape Published duration 30 June 2019

image copyright Getty Images image caption Reticulated pythons are the longest snakes in the world - typically growing between 10 and 20 feet

A 9ft (2.7m) python has escaped from its owner's home.

Cambridgeshire Police is searching for the snake after receiving reports in the early hours it was on the loose in Lovell Road, Cambridge.

The force tweeted that it had traced its owner, who confirmed the reticulated python was missing.

Anyone who sees the reptile, which is not venomous but wraps around its prey and suffocates them, is urged to call 101.

It was nicknamed Dave and taken to a wildlife centre in Stretham.

Reticulated pythons

They originate from Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia and Thailand

They are excellent swimmers and like forest locations near streams and lakes

The largest recorded reticulated python grew to 31.5ft (9.6m). They typically grow between 10 and 20 feet

Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica