Owner of Snake Slithering in Toilet Comes Forward

The great mystery of the snake in a toilet has been solved.

The 5-foot boa constrictor that slithered from a toilet at a downtown San Diego PR firm belongs to a tenant who lives on the fourth floor, the property manager told NBC 7 on Thursday.

The owner came forward on Wednesday, saying the snake had been lost and he thought it had escaped from a window, as its enclosure is near the window.

He "feels really bad for the anguish" this has caused, the property manager said. The owner plans to move the snake to a friend's house.

Meanwhile, the snake is staying at the Gaines Street Animal Shelter.

No word yet on a reunion.

So why did the snake escape to the building's sewage system? Lt. Dan DeSousa with San Diego County Animal Services said it appeared the snake was about to shed skin and was likely seeking a water source.

"He found a toilet to soak in and obviously didn't come out of that toilet," DeSousa said. "Took a wrong turn, ended up downstairs."

Holly Wells, whose partner at Vertical Public Relations found the snake as she was plunging the toilet, said they have no hard feelings.

"I'm not upset. I think we can have a good chuckle over it, honestly," she said. "My partner, Stephanie, who's terrified of snakes, might think a little bit differently. But I think it's all fun and games."

The owner still hasn't come forward publicly. His snake has an attitude -- a reputation as a nipper, animal control workers said.

The story drew national interest and Animal Services is still getting phone calls from news outlets.

It's not difficult to figure out why, Wells said.

"Everyone is so intrigued by the story because it's everyone's nightmare come true."

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