Unexpected Visitor: Snake Found in Zagreb Home Safely Removed

Residents of Zagreb's Gračani neighborhood experienced an unusual surprise when a snake found its way into their home. The family sought assistance from the Infocenter for Lost and Found Animals at the City of Zagreb's Shelter for Abandoned Animals – Dumovec.

The homeowners kept a close watch on the reptile as it moved from a room near drawers, under a bed, and finally into a closet. Dalibor, a field service officer from Dumovec, responded promptly to the call. He quickly located the unwelcome guest, successfully captured it, and removed it from the house in a cloth bag.

Upon examination, the snake was identified as a grass snake (bjelouška), a common and non-venomous species in Croatia. Dalibor transported the snake to an appropriate natural location and released it back into the wild.

According to Dumovec, the grass snake displayed a common defensive behavior by playing dead when it perceived a threat. This tactic is used to deter predators. Once Dalibor moved away, the snake slithered off into its natural environment. The shelter shared the story on social media, highlighting the successful rescue and release of the non-venomous visitor.