Newberry, South Carolina, August 22, 2025
News Summary
In Newberry, South Carolina, a family successfully captured a 12-foot albino Burmese python near Mid-Carolina High School. This incident raises awareness about the responsibilities of exotic pet ownership and the implications for local wildlife. The python, which had been loose for three weeks, was confirmed as a non-native species and is now relocated to the Edisto Island Serpentarium. Community members expressed relief after its capture, highlighting the importance of responsible pet ownership and potential impacts on local ecosystems.
Newberry, South Carolina – A local family effectively captured a large python near Mid-Carolina High School on the night of August 18, 2023, raising concerns about exotic pet ownership in the area. The snake, believed to be an albino Burmese python measuring approximately 12 feet long, was rescued by Warren Gallman and several friends who acted swiftly to ensure the community’s safety.
Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster confirmed the python’s identity and noted that it is a non-native species to South Carolina. The snake had been on the loose for approximately three weeks, igniting safety concerns among residents. Sheriff Foster commended Gallman and his friends for their courage, referring to them as “great Americans” on social media.
It is suspected that the python, now safely relocated to the Edisto Island Serpentarium, was once a pet that became too large for its owner to manage. This incident highlights an overarching issue regarding the responsibility of pet ownership, particularly with exotic animals that can pose risks when released into the wild. Wildlife officials have expressed concerns about such practices, which could lead to complications in local ecosystems.
Concerns Surrounding Exotic Pets
Wildlife experts emphasize that exotic pets, like the Burmese python, should not be released into the environment due to their potential impact on local fauna. Though there are no confirmed cases of Burmese pythons attacking humans, the species typically preys on smaller animals, which could disrupt the local food chain.
Python’s Adaptability and Habits
Burmese pythons are known for their adaptability in various environments, including their ability to swim and remain submerged underwater to evade potential predators. This adaptability makes them particularly challenging to manage when in the wild.
Community Response and Safety Measures
The community expressed relief following the capture of the python, as its presence raised safety concerns among residents, especially near a school. Gallman communicated that sending the python to the Edisto Island Serpentarium was primarily for the snake’s safety and to provide peace of mind to the community.
This incident sheds light on the need for stricter regulations and public education regarding exotic pet ownership. As wildlife officials continue to assess the implications of such releases, awareness campaigns may become increasingly important in fostering responsible pet care among residents.
Conclusion
The successful capture and relocation of the python highlight the vital role of community responsibility in dealing with exotic species. As the local government and wildlife authorities continue to monitor situations like this, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and its broader effects on ecosystem health.
FAQ Section
What happened on August 18, 2023, near Mid-Carolina High School?
A large python was captured by a family and friends after being loose for approximately three weeks.
What species was the python?
The python was identified as an albino Burmese python, a non-native species to South Carolina.
Why was the python released into the wild?
It is believed that the python was a pet that grew too large for its owner to manage.
What are the potential risks of releasing exotic pets?
Releasing exotic pets can disrupt local ecosystems and may pose threats to native wildlife.
What is the current status of the python?
The python has been relocated to the Edisto Island Serpentarium for its safety and the peace of mind of the community.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Species | Albino Burmese python |
| Length | Approximately 12 feet |
| Location | Near Mid-Carolina High School, Newberry County |
| Capture Date | August 18, 2023 |
| Previous Status | Loose for three weeks |
| Current Status | Relocated to Edisto Island Serpentarium |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Brave Family Captures 12-Foot Albino Python in South Carolina
Local Family Captures 12-Foot Python in Newberry
Additional Resources
- WBTV
- Wikipedia: Burmese python
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Burmese python South Carolina
- Independent Mail
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
