Owner: 9-foot-long anaconda found in van in Hampton Bays

The owner of a 9-foot-long anaconda that went missing early Tuesday morning says he found the reptile in his van in Hampton Bays.

Erik Callender, also known as "Erik The Reptile Guy," says his anaconda named Bertha was discovered when she tugged at his seat belt while he was driving.

Callender says the snake was well hidden under the dash, even though the van was investigated thoroughly. The Suffolk County SPCA says the snake was thought to have escaped the van around 3 a.m. on Bay Avenue.

Officials warn that if you ever encounter a snake, do not handle it yourself. The SPCA asks you to call it at 631-382-7722 or call police.

Callender says the snake is part of his traveling reptile education program.