Rescue team captures ball python while two remain elusive

On September 26, 2025, animal rescuers in New York engaged in a dramatic effort to capture exotic snakes found roaming in a local park. The incident unfolded in Queens when a member of the rescue group Puppy Kitty NYC observed a man attempting to guide three pythons away from the roadway adjacent to Forest Park. Concerned that the man may have been harming the snakes, the rescuer stopped to assist and was soon joined by bystanders. Together, they managed to capture one of the snakes, a 4-foot-long ball python, which was later named Kevin in honor of a local resident who played a role in the rescue. With the weather turning cold, immediate action was necessary as the other two snakes managed to escape into the surrounding park area, raising concerns for their safety and survival. After being captured, Kevin was transported to the Animal Care Centers of NYC, where he was placed in an incubator to warm up before being transferred to a rescue for further care. The rescue group acknowledged that the remaining pythons were in danger due to the dropping temperatures and heightened their efforts to locate them before it became too late. As these snakes are considered exotic animals, it is illegal to own them within New York City limits, and the origins of the pythons remain unclear. Authorities, including local police, were alerted about the situation to ensure the safety of both the animals and the community. Residents in the area expressed a mix of concern and fascination, noting the unusual occurrence of such snakes in their neighborhood.