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Surprise Discovery in Banana Shipment Shakes Grocery Store in New Hampshire

A surprising and somewhat alarming situation arose at a grocery store in southern New Hampshire when a snake was unexpectedly discovered in a shipment of bananas. This incident occurred at the Market Basket location in Manchester, prompting a swift response from local wildlife officials.

On Saturday, a conservation officer from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department was alerted to the presence of an “unwanted hitchhiker” in the store. Reports highlight the snake’s identification as an ornate cat-eyed snake, a species that is mildly venomous and indigenous to Ecuador, a major supplier of bananas to the United States.

Unique Incident for Local Wildlife Officials

Griffin McKeown, the conservation officer who handled the situation, recounted his experience in an interview, revealing that he interacted with a Market Basket employee who appeared to have a solid understanding of snakes. McKeown noted that this type of call was unprecedented for him, stating, “We’ve had a few calls about pet surrenders of ball pythons and stuff like that, but never, never [a] venomous snake.”

The discovery of the snake proved to be a unique case, highlighting not only the unusual challenges wildlife officers sometimes face but also the extensive range of life that can accompany produce shipments. While snake encounters are common in the wild, finding one among bananas is not typical.

Legal Implications of Snake Ownership

It is important to note that in New Hampshire, possessing any venomous snake, with the exception of the hog-nosed snake, is prohibited. This regulation aims to protect both the public and the local ecosystem from the potential dangers posed by non-native wildlife.

After confirming that the snake was unharmed, officials decided to relocate it to a safer environment. The ornate cat-eyed snake was sent to Rainforest Reptile Shows Inc. in northern Massachusetts, ensuring it would receive appropriate care and habitat.

As of now, neither Market Basket nor the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department has publicly commented on the incident. This occurrence serves as a reminder of the unexpected surprises that can arise in daily life, especially in contexts involving international shipping and commerce.

With wildlife encounters on the rise in urban areas, it is essential for residents and businesses alike to stay informed about local wildlife laws and to take the necessary precautions should they encounter exotic animals in unexpected places.

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