Pythons found after brief escape from Calif. home

[February 03, 2009]  SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (AP) -- A 23-foot, 130-pound orange reticulated python, the world's longest snake species, and a second python escaped from a terrarium inside their owner's home in San Luis Obispo on Sunday night.

Police quickly warned residents that the snakes, though domesticated, were large enough to make meals of young children or pets.

But both were captured in the neighborhood by Monday afternoon. The smaller python, a 12-footer, was spotted under the owner's porch.

The 23-footer was found basking in the sun in a backyard several blocks away.

No injuries were reported. Police says the snakes' owner will not be cited.

Says police Sgt. Kurt Hixenbaugh: "There is no leash law for snakes."

[Associated Press]

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