A snake under the bed is nightmare fuel for plenty of people. In Dayton, Ohio, it became the focus of a police response.
Here's what to know
According to Fox 8, deputies were called to remove a rat snake that had gotten into a resident's home and hidden beneath the bed. The Butler County Sheriff's Office shared footage of the response team searching for, securing, and safely removing the "suspect" for relocation.
"I've always said no two days are the same around here," Sheriff Richard K. Jones said after the incident. "... Whether it's runaway goats, wandering cows, snakes in the bedroom, or wanted criminals, no job is too big—or too small—for your Butler County Sheriff's deputies. Thankfully, this suspect was released without bond… into the woods."
More background
The scene may seem unusual, but as neighborhoods expand into natural areas and construction disrupts animals' natural habitats, all sorts of creatures searching for shelter, food, or cooler hiding places can wind up inside garages, sheds, kitchens, and even bedrooms. That overlap can feel alarming even when an animal is not acting aggressively.
As for the rat snake, also known as black rat snake, it is "harmless to humans" and provides the benefit of controlling rat and mouse populations, according to Dayton Snakes, though it is "quite intimidating-looking" and will defend itself if provoked.
What can be done?
Crawl spaces or small gaps offer entry points to animals. Reducing the chances of an indoor encounter can be as simple as sealing gaps around doors, windows, vents, and foundations. Removing easy food sources around the home and limiting clutter in yards or outbuildings can also make properties less attractive to wildlife.
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If an animal enters your home, trying to corner or grab it can be risky. Closing off the room when possible, keeping pets and children away, and calling trained professionals can help prevent bites, stress, and injury.
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