An `unexpected` surprise in a tomato box... a big snake

2023-12-31 2023-12-31T11:10:15Z

ArabiaWeather - There is no doubt that preparing tomato boxes at the Ontario Food Station in Toronto is a routine task, but the sudden discovery of an intrusive traveler weeks ago led to a long process of returning to Mexico.

At the end of November, worker Troy was unloading a box of tomatoes when he spotted an orange-and-white northern cat-eyed snake.

In this context, Natalie Karvonen, executive director of the Toronto Wildlife Centre, told CityNews:

"We get calls... maybe like once a year about animals being accidentally transported either in produce or even in flowers. And there was a case that happened where someone brought their suitcase to the front desk, opened it, and there was a scorpion in there."

Although this has happened before, this time was exceptional as the northern cat's eye snake was brought to the center. Northern cat's eye snakes are noted to be somewhat venomous but not of serious human health concern.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Toronto Wildlife Center (@torontowildlifecentre)

Snake rescue at Toronto Wildlife Centre

A video was posted on the Toronto Wildlife Centre's Instagram account on Thursday showing rescuers removing a snake from a tomato box. Veterinary staff conducted a medical examination on the snake, which was showing signs of good health, despite its long journey of more than 3,000 kilometres.

Speaking to City News, Natalie Karvonen, the center's executive director, confirmed that the center's staff and volunteers provide regular care for the snake, noting the importance of maintaining the temperature and humidity of the enclosure to support the animal's health.

In addition, the article addressed the financial challenges faced by the charitable center and the costs associated with the resettlement process. In this context, the center seeks to achieve its mission of returning accidental travelers to their native environment, and reviews the efforts made to cooperate with the authorities in Mexico to ensure the return of the snake to its homeland.

On the other hand, the article highlights the importance of snakes in the ecosystem, and highlights the love of some for these creatures and their long role in the environment.