Missing Snake Found On Red Line Train
DORCHESTER (CBS/AP) - A 3-foot-long snake that slithered away from its owner on the Red Line last month has been found after startling a passenger.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens reports
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Penelope the boa constrictor was spotted on the train Thursday morning by a commuter who alerted a train attendant at the Savin Hill station.
The MBTA took the train out of service to search it.
It wasn't until 8:30 p.m. that train attendant Sharon Lynch -- a snake owner herself -- caught the snake.
WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez reports
"She really has a passion for snakes," said Bill McClellan, MBTA Red Line Chief.
"She knew it wasn't a dangerous snake, so she picked it up and handled it."
Penelope's owner, 30-year-old Melissa Moorhouse of Allston, had traveled around with the Boa around her neck and lost it between the Broadway and Andrew stations on Jan. 6.
She's thrilled to have her snake back, and says she'll pay more attention the next time she takes Penelope out in public.
The boa had made its home in a compartment behind the driver. T officials speculate the snake survived because the compartment is a heat source that is always kept warm.
The MBTA says that small pets are allowed on the train but must be kept in a container.
WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez contributed to this story
(TM and © Copyright 2010 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
