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The owner of a boa constrictor which has gone missing in Huyton said she has been "out of her mind with worry" since it disappeared.

Jennifer Whitby, of Parbrook Road, said she got up about 6am today and noticed pet snake Petzy's tank was empty.

Police have warned the public not to approach the five foot-long snake if they see it.

Jennifer, 27, said: "She's either managed to slide out of the tank or someone's come into the house and taken her.

"I've been feeling sick with worry ever since she went missing.

"The only hole I could see she could have got through was by the leccy box so I've had a hammer to that and taken it apart but I couldn't find her.

"The only other thing I can think of is that she's got through the letter box."

Jennifer said six-year-old son Nathan has been looking for the pet too.

She said: "He's been searching high and low for her since he found out.

"When the police came round he told them he didn't have to go to school because he wanted to stay and help look for her.

"She is really well known on the street, all the young lads come round and want to see her and hold her.

"She's part of our family really."

Jennifer added: "I can't remember if the back door was locked or not so it might be that someone's come in and taken her.

"I would rather that she's been taken because even though I don't want her to get stolen I'll know she isn't out there.

"I am worried about other people's pets, but boa constrictors can go without food for months."

Four-year-old Petzy has black and green camouflage markings and is yellow underneath.

She is non-venomous and described as placid but could become aggressive if she feels threatened.

Anyone who sees Petzi should call police on 101.