Pythons found in Lacamas Park

Camas police responding to a report of large snakes in Lacamas Park Thursday morning discovered eight medium-sized pythons near the parking area by Round Lake. 

Camas Police Sgt. Scot Boyles said the snakes, which ranged in length from 3 to 6 feet, were lethargic, possibly due to the cooler temperatures. 

Officers conducted “an extensive search” of the area, but did not find any other snake, Boyles said. 

In a press release, Camas police said the snakes were pythons — possibly ball or Burmese pythons, according to Boyles — not native to the Pacific Northwest and typically owned as pets. 

Authorities believe a previous owner may have left the snakes at the park. 

Officers working with Clark County Animal Control were able to contain the snakes and have them transported to an animal shelter. The snakes will be examined and could be re-homed. 

Boyles said the discovery was unusual.

“I’ve been here 23 years, and I remember a snapping turtle was found (in Lacamas Park) about 10 or 12 years ago, but I don’t recall any (pythons) — at least not eight of them,” Boyles said.