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UPDATE: Deadly Snake Still Missing In Onslow County Save Email Print
Posted: 5:41 PM May 22, 2008
Last Updated: 5:16 PM May 27, 2008

A | A | A

There has been no progress toward catching the deadly snake that's on the loose in Onslow County.

A resident on Mill Farms Road, that's off Piney Green Road, saw a Monocled Cobra under her back deck earlier this week.

Officials said they believed the snake was released by a group trying to raise awareness in making it illegal for people to own exotic animals.

But the public relations director for the Animal Protection Institute says her organization had nothing to do with the snake release.

Officials say they found a flyer indicating someone lost two cobras, while Thursday night just one was spotted by the resident.

Officials warn these snakes can be deadly with one bite. They urge you to stay away if you see these snakes and immediately call authorities.

Thursday's Story

Officials say the two Monocled Cobras on the loose in Onslow County may have been dumped there by an animal rights group pushing for a ban on exotic animals.

The two cobras are believed to be near Mill Farms Road off Piney Green Road in Onslow County.

Officials say they found a flyer indicating someone lost the two cobras. They believe the snakes were placed there by the group Animal Protection Institute to raise awareness in making it illegal for people to own exotic animals.

In an e-mail to WITN News, Animal Protection Institute public relations director Zibby Wilder said her organization had nothing to do with the snake release.

Wilder says this is yet another example of why North Carolina needs to regulate ownership of dangerous wild animals. "Obviously this is a hoax perpetrated by someone upset about pending legislation that we are involved in," Wilder said in her e-mail to WITN.

Officials warn these snakes can be deadly with one bite. They urge you to stay away if you see these snakes and immediately call authorities.

According to National Geographic, The most deadly serpent aboard fictional Pacific Air Flight 121 is the Monocled cobra. Like many venomous snakes, the cobra's poison affects its victim's central nervous system. But Monocled cobra venom is so powerful that the victim's immune system goes into hyperdrive and actually begins to break down organs and muscles. Death is almost instantaneous.

The Monocled cobra is named for the conspicuous design on its hood that can feature either one or two "eyes." The snake can grow up to 6.5 feet long and hunts mostly at night.

Monocled Cobra
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Posted by: Rubber Chicken Location: Lebanon on Oct 18, 2008 at 10:19 PM
You people sound like a freakin paranoid hen party ! ps; Im immune to cobra venom so if you catch them, Ill take all three!

Posted by: stephen edwards Location: moyock, nc on Jun 20, 2008 at 01:34 PM
I am afraid that the climate in eastern north carolina is mild enough for cobra's to survive in the wild. if one were to show up in my yard, i would go ahead and remedy the problem myself with my shotgun!

Posted by: mary Location: shallotte on Jun 17, 2008 at 09:18 PM
i would like too known how fast they traveland it they wiil make you die why can,t fine how let them loose you dont here no more up dates on them my god be with everyone in that areai have a 4year old would not let her out too play

Posted by: ktown nog Location: kinston on Jun 17, 2008 at 01:20 AM
yea.. thats what these hillbillies around here need to play with.. deadly animals.. yee haw.. i saw the local ktown police shooting at a fox in the neighborhood last nite. and boy are they sad... sad sad sad!!!

Posted by: Marie Location: Kinston on Jun 15, 2008 at 04:23 PM
I just hope that neither of the snakes is pregnant. That is just what we need...another species of snakes in N.C.

Posted by: sharonda Location: grimesland on Jun 11, 2008 at 09:01 PM
If someone released these snakes, they should be held responsible for that. What if someone's child is harmed? I'm glad I don't live in Onslow County. I'd be freaking out. On the lighter side, the Chuck Norris and snake whisper comments are Hilarious!

Posted by: David Location: Manteo on Jun 9, 2008 at 11:35 AM
I have no tolerance for snakes. I would rather kill them than look at them. I have moved out of a house because of black snakes. I have moved out of a neighborhood because my former neighbor bought a snake. I just killed a, what I was told could possibly have been a Milk Snake in Manns Harbor this past weekend with my car. It was late at night, and it was moving across the road towards a home, so I ran over it, backed up over it and drove over it for a third time. Dangerous or not, snakes are all the same to me and if I have killed one, I have killed them all. Thank God I don't live in Onslow County, I would have moved counties away by now!

Posted by: T Location: Jacksonville on Jun 8, 2008 at 08:41 AM
Editor: is there an update? May I have clarification...I live in the Brookstone Subdivision off Rocky Run Rd and the rumor is these snakes got loose in Horse Creek Farms, just down the road. Your article states Mill Farms rd off Piney Green. Which is correct? I have small children and will not rest easy until this whole ordeal is resolved.

EDITOR'S NOTE: At last check the one snake that was spotted under the woman's back deck on Mill Farms Road is still missing.


Posted by: jay Location: nc on Jun 7, 2008 at 08:47 PM
Animal Protection Institute is supporting bills in North Carolina to have the state step in and begin regulating the private ownership of exotic animals. What a better tactic then to cause a panic among the public by turning some of these snakes loose. If a group or an individual purposely turned poisonous snakes loose I believe this should be considered a terrorist attack. Even if they didn’t turn them loose but falsely reported they did to make a point that should still be a terrorist attack in my book. No different then these other animal wacko groups burning buildings and other such criminal activities to further their loony ideas. Hopefully know one gets hurt and don’t worry I’ll continue to follow this story and bring you the latest. Story by Dan McLaughlin AKA Moose

Posted by: jay Location: nc on Jun 7, 2008 at 08:45 PM
I'll tell you it's been an odd and ongoing trend in states fighting exotic bans, that dangerous species seem to pop up, be sighted, or released right when laws are being discussed or voted on. Its an old scare tactic, that is illegal but almost impossible to prove. It coerces people to give up their rights out of fear. Odd that API denied it would do such a thing, especially when they and their affiliates swore they were rescuing young dogs and puppies(from a shelter), placing them in good homes, only to be found illegaly euthinizing them in a van then dumping them into a grocery store dumpster over a span of months. HRmmmmm sounds pretty ethical to me.... It's a shame these groups will stop at nothing and willingly break laws to get their point across. They have been linked to many terrorist type of activities. Be aware that when things like this happen it's usually staged. People don't accidently release $1000 and higher animals then hang signs with info so they can be arrested.

Posted by: TruthSeeker Location: USA on Jun 7, 2008 at 02:52 PM
Somebody pointed out that Barbara Riley, the researcher who works on and basically authors all the animal bills in NC, is supposedly the sister in law and dear friend of Nicole Paquette of API,(Animal Protection Institute) the animal rights vegan group mentioned that might have supposedly something to do with the fake invisible cobras and the very group heavily lobbying to pass exotic animal bills .Can you find out if this is indeed the truth? If it is the truth, wouldn’t that be a serious conflict of interest???

Posted by: J Location: c-town on Jun 6, 2008 at 10:01 PM
i think if someone wants to have an extoic pet they should move to the country it comes from an keep it over there where it belongs! if i see it or anyone i know does it will be killed on site! and if it bites sumone the person responceible should be charged with murder.NO snake is a good pet an for all the people who disagree wait til you or child gets bit by ur extoic snake and dies then tell me how good of a pet they are!! snakes r the devil have you ever read the bible?

Posted by: Lucy Location: Windsor, NC on Jun 6, 2008 at 04:19 PM
Well lets hope they haven't found their way to Hyde, Washington, or Tyrrell Co. If the smoke don't kill them the fire just might!!!! Why would any sane person own one of these, much less let it go??? They should have called the zoo, if they had grown tired of the snake!!!!

Posted by: Alecia Location: Jacksonville on Jun 6, 2008 at 01:27 PM
I have lived over 16 years in NC alone and many other locations across the country. When you spend the majority of your time outside there is a desire and need to not only be AWARE of what is around you, but to also UNDERSTAND it. That is basically all I am saying. I have a creek and woodland on my property so yes I have encountered copper heads and water moccasins and many others to include nonvenomous snakes. And just to clear things up, I never said that a snake shouldn't be killed or that it is wrong to do so. Forther more, my son does not go out to find snakes and catch them(never have/will). How we deal with the snake depends on our situation and location. So you can call me a Yank or what ever you feel like since I have lived all over this country. Just don't sit there and try to make it seem like my families saftey isn't my first priority, because it always has been and always will be. The more information you have the better prepaired you are as long as use use it CORRECTLY.

Posted by: k town nog Location: kinston on Jun 6, 2008 at 12:58 AM
well.. if you see it.. i will pay top dollar.. i been looking for a new set of boots. holler

Posted by: chester Location: china on Jun 5, 2008 at 12:02 PM
someone should call chuck norris.. he'll know wat to do. he eats these snakes for breakfast

Posted by: Ted Location: Greenville on Jun 4, 2008 at 08:43 PM
maybe you would like to send your child to Onslow County to help look for these snakes. Seriously, I'd think that die hard animal rights folks would be up in arms at the thought of someone releasing non native wildlife of any sort where it doesn't belong. I hope the folks in Onslow have mistaken the Eastern Hognose Snake, which can flatten out it's neck much like cobras but are non venomous. However if someone did release actual cobras and someone is bitten no amount of "I'm Sorry's" or "Bunny Hugging" will justify murder.

Posted by: C Location: New Berm on Jun 2, 2008 at 07:19 PM
Are they still missing? EDITOR'S COMMENT: Last we knew.

Posted by: d Location: Martin County on May 31, 2008 at 10:54 PM
Some Water Mocassin has probably aleady taken care of the cobra.nature has a way of taking care of things. Or maybe a copperhaead took the cobra out.Or maybe the rattlesnakes we have around here took him out. Or maybe the harmless chicken eaters we have took him out.Chicken Eaters are huge and that cobra might have had a heart attact when he saw that harmless chicken eater. Look around people.we got some bad snakes around here. Why in the world would any sane person have a deadly cobra? Why would any sane person let it go to possibly hurt someone?

Posted by: to....Alecia Location: williamston on May 31, 2008 at 10:46 PM
I think about everyone in my county knows quite bit about snakes.We know how to identify them.We know poinsonous from non. And we know not to let our 4 year old chidren outside without them being aware of the fact that there are snakes.We teach our children,don'tgo in high grassy areas.We teach them to simply be aware. Alicia,you obviously have never encountered a water moccasin.Meanest snake in the world. And when my family sees a moccasin or rattler or copperhead ....WE KILL IT. Sue me if you want.But no danger of them becoming endangered.Plenty more in the nearest creek. alicia,you can not be from this areaa.You must be some Yankee who has move south. Gid Bless you with some common sense.

Posted by: Rosebud Location: Lagrange on May 30, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Witn...could you please give us an update on this story? Thank you.

Posted by: do what Location: nc on May 30, 2008 at 10:10 AM
to alecia from jacksonville: your comments make no sense and they are not directed to the story itself

Posted by: Alecia Location: Jacksonville on May 30, 2008 at 07:08 AM
There is a saying that I believe in 100%. "An individual can be smart, but a group(the public)can be stupid." No one has any real information, but it sure does sound like almost everone knows exactly what is going on. Never have understood that. NC has 6 native snakes that are venomous and 16 nonvenomous snakes. If anyone is actually concernd about all of this how about educating yourself on the natural surrounds of plants and animals where you live. Ignorance is no excuse for stupidity. Remember the old saying "Its better to be thought an idiot, than to open your mouth and prove it." I myself have a 4 year old son and love showing him all kinds of animals, spiders and snakes. He has personally found 2 rattlers and we find black widows daily, but he knows and understands what to do and how to act around poisinous or unknown animals. Knowledge is the key to so many things, but it seems to be a concept many people do not believe in any more.

Posted by: Timba Location: Nevada on May 30, 2008 at 03:28 AM
For those of you worrying about these snakes reproducing, they simply don't reproduce that fast. And this is assuming there is a male and female snake loose, and that they have in fact, mated. Even if they do reproduce this season, they won't survive the winter. I also remember being in south Florida some years ago, and being warned to be very vigilant about coral snakes and other venomous snakes. So I guess Florida is already a risky place just from the native wildlife!

Posted by: Merita Lewis-Spencer Location: Fairfield on May 29, 2008 at 11:36 AM
Just who are the "officials" that "found" a flyer. How often do people just leave flyers aound about places?

Posted by: Jim Location: Jacksonville on May 29, 2008 at 11:29 AM
The snakes should not be killed. Capture them and put them in zoo.Its not the snakes fault some person let them go in this area. If they are not captured by the winter they will most likely die.The person that let them go should be charged and put in jail.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 29, 2008 at 10:37 AM
Tony in GVegas, Mossberg is probably the best language for these snakes anyway. Good comment!!!

Posted by: Tony Location: GVegas on May 29, 2008 at 04:03 AM
Hey Cactus I am a snake whisperer.Unfortunately I only speak Mossberg to them

Posted by: jeffrey Location: warsaw on May 28, 2008 at 11:23 PM
is it one snake or two they need to be killed i really hate snake i'm very afraid of them can you please keep us updated thank you

Posted by: Barry Location: Beaufort on May 28, 2008 at 06:22 PM
What evidence is there that the animal rights group did this? Your article says that "officials" (who are these officials)say the Cobras may have (may have?) been dumped there by an animal rights group. Your writer is using vague and "official" sounding words where I need facts. I am more than a little skeptical about this article.

Posted by: Thelma Location: Jacksonville on May 28, 2008 at 03:06 PM
Ok this scares the crap out of me! Mainly b/c I HATE snakes, but now I have to worry about this! OMG now I'm scared to even go outside! B/c now they could have already started reproducing and before we know it have a whole bunch! Why do they make it legal to have these things in America! They have stupid irresponsible owners who lose there pets! Not to mention why would you want this kind of poisonous pet around your house in the 1st place! I pray they find these snakes!

Posted by: Matthew Location: Askewville N.C on May 28, 2008 at 08:56 AM
I think that if you find the snakes that you should kill it. By this time you might already have more. They might have multiplied so dont catch it kill it.

Posted by: Puzzled Location: Greenville on May 27, 2008 at 08:30 PM
If they cannot stop the illegal Mexicans, keyword ILLEGAL from coming to the country, how could they stop the illegal cobras? They are no doubt coming with the...you guessed it, illegal Mexicans. Not racist here but I believe in following the laws. Bizarre!!

Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane,NC on May 27, 2008 at 06:49 PM
Is there a snake wisperer in the house?

Posted by: scott Location: greenville on May 27, 2008 at 04:22 PM
I think it should be a felony crime to own or sell any exotic animal that is deemed harmful or dangerous to human life or the natural environment or species. It should be illegal to sell these types of animals in a pet shop. Its all about money as many things are. If we do not act quickly we in north carolina could have the sdame problem as florida does with pythons and such that have grown to big for homes or people that no longer want the up keep and dump them in the nearest pond only to endanger native habitat. Irresponsibily of humans that destroys the earth.

Posted by: tkb Location: pink hill on May 27, 2008 at 03:22 PM
The best snake is a dead snake. I hope no one gets bitten before they find these snakes, if they are really loose. WITN do you have an update on the snakes?

EDITOR'S NOTE: They are still missing.


Posted by: Chip Location: America on May 27, 2008 at 02:28 PM
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2006/08/photogalleries/snakesonaplane/photo3.html i think somebody needs a little lesson on plagiarism...

Editor's Note: We have a large bank of images and sites we can use to obtain and post photos. This image was inadvertently posted, and it has been removed. Thanks for bringing it to our attention.


Posted by: Craig Location: G-Vegas on May 27, 2008 at 12:43 PM
Here we go again with reckless humans and dangerous animals. It should be against the law to bring exotic species to any area. Look at what is happening to the Mississippi River basin with the Chinese Jumping Carp. Just a couple of weeks ago we were reading about the release of Pythons in florida and an established breeding population. The release of cane toads in austrailia is wiping out a lot of the native species there. If one of these cobras bites someone here, do you think there would be time to find antivenom and get it here in time to save your life. I think it should be against the law to keep such snakes in your home. If caught it should be a manditory jail time of at least 5 years along with at least a $10,000 fine. Only people with permits should be allowed to have these types of snakes. these people would be affiliated with museums and zoos. Any escape should be treated as a terrorist carrying a nuclear weapon would be. Hunted until it is found.

Posted by: Elwood Location: Jacksonville on May 27, 2008 at 10:17 AM
If one of those cobras get near here, im buying a mongoose!!!

Posted by: tater-gump Location: Washington on May 26, 2008 at 07:08 PM
I heard on a radio show one morning that someone from Chocowitny sent in a pitcure of a corba as their pet, for some pet contest the radio station was doing. If this is true i would like to know if someon that close to me really has a cobra! The station was V103 and it was the early morning show i heard it!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: beulaville nc on May 26, 2008 at 06:39 PM
i think if someone gets bitten by theses snakes and dies the person who had them or turned them out should be held resposible for their death and should be charged....

Posted by: Kathleen Location: Kinston on May 26, 2008 at 04:05 PM
To make light a serious situation, last summer my sister went to her chicken house to collect the eggs. Minutes later she was screaming and running thru the yard. We managed to stop her to see what was wrong. she was screaming that there was a cobra in the hen house. She said he was big. Armed with two shotguns, and a shovel we inched toward the pen. We found the "cobra"...it was a big chicken snake that had just swallowed an egg. My husband carried the snake to the woods, the next day the chickens left to. To this day I laugh at this situation.

Posted by: Timba Location: Nevada on May 26, 2008 at 02:41 PM
A comment was made here that no one has a right to keep exotic animals. From an animal's standpoint, what makes an exotic animal any different from animals we keep for pets or farming, etc.? 'Exotic' is a label we have applied to the animals and not them themselves. Man and animals have a relationship that goes back to our prehistory. In this sense, it is a fundamental right to own any animal, whether it is labeled exotic or otherwise. Of course, it is common sense that the animals be kept in a humane manner. (But there are people even messing to their own end with the definition of 'humane'!) Unfortunately, many who feel that we should not own animals are trying to force their viewpoint on those who do own and benefit (in many ways) from having animals. In a lot of respects, this is a 'religious issue'. In this country especially, people have a right to choose what they believe in. People who choose not to own animals should not own animals, and leave the animal owners alone.

Posted by: Bill Location: La on May 25, 2008 at 11:18 PM
So far, there is no real evidence that any cobras are on the loose. There was a "lost cobras" poster that any idiot could photoshop and post. Someone panicked by a sensationalized news story could easily mistake a black rat snake for one of these. The issue is serious, but the possibility of the whole thing being a hoax put forth by animals rights freaks is very strong. In any case, most places require a strict permitting system for anyone to own venomous snakes. These snakes should not be confused with harmless pet trade snakes such as king snakes, milk snakes, corn snakes, small pythons, and boa constrictors. These animals are less dangerous than most dog breeds and have less impact on the environment than cats. The animal rights freaks would like to ban them, but rational voters should reject those bans.

Posted by: Rosebud Location: Lagrange on May 25, 2008 at 03:32 PM
OIC..if they mate, would the babies adapt to our climate? Remember, our winters are not that cold anymore.

Posted by: Sheryl Location: Jacksonville on May 25, 2008 at 02:06 PM
It's only one snake, not two, like the not very well researched story says. As for exotic animals, they are illegal in Onslow County. Anyone who truly loves them should want them to stay in their natural environment, not kept in a cage or aquarium as a pet. These animals are not pets. They deserve to be left alone. Keeping exotic animals is not only NOT a right, but it's a denigration of nature. How sad that this animal was not left to roam his native country as he was meant to. Keeping exotic "pets" is stupid, dangerous and destructive. I hope the whole state bans this practice, as have most of the rest of this country.

Posted by: Me Location: GVegas on May 25, 2008 at 12:41 PM
Bob D sorry about your situation.Lots of beer will help with the mother-in-law problem.

Posted by: Bob D Location: Martin on May 25, 2008 at 07:37 AM
Yes! These snakes are poison, but what is the difference, of them being out in the open area, than some wild life nuts releasing alligators out in the roanoke river. Yes! there has been a ten foot seen on the bank. With the population like it is and cutting all the trees down has all kinds of animals on the run, it is a wonder we haven't seen the so-called Yettie in our backyard and if you do call me. But seriously, just think what about a sidney funnelweb spider being on the loose. but, even if I saw him I could catch him but I wouln't do it, they part of life. We are more subject to be killed by a car accident or a robber, or a be sting than these snakes, I know it is easy for me to say this because they are not in my area. But I have something more deadly than that: my Wife, and my mother-n-law lives with me, if I had a choice give me the Snakes.

Posted by: Stein Location: Burlington, NC on May 24, 2008 at 11:07 PM
I had a Smooth-Front Caiman at one time, and feared that the state would ban such beautiful animals. Banning the keeping of these animals, is about as brilliant as Burlington banning the keeping of chickens and ducks, because they are "deadly" animals. If I were to choose to keep a cobra, a rattler, or even another Caiman, that is no one's business other than mine. These animals are far too valuable to not keep contained properly. When states or municipalities attack personal liberties, like the keeping of the pets of choice, the fanatics always have a hand in scaring the public to their views. The first snake sighting may be real, but I think the others are hoaxes, perpetrated by some fanatical group that wants every aspect of everyone's life controlled. They could be API, PETA, or H$U$, or any combination of the three. These AR groups could care less about the animals. API is NOT a legislative group, and has no business writing laws. No one died and made them God.

Posted by: OIC Location: Greenville on May 24, 2008 at 05:54 PM
There are people who keep snakes that take really good care of there snakes and have them in proper enclosures.There is a small percent that do not. Should all snake owners be punished. NO they should not. Same goes with dogs. IF this group set these snakes free they should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. They should be banned from running an animal activist group and so should anyone within there group. ZJB is right. These snakes will die in the fall and winter from the cool temps. They will suffer a terrible death from a respitory infection and if the group is found to have let them go should be charged with animal cruelty along with other charges. Most people who do not know snakes or do not see them often can not ID them. What was said to be a cobra could easily be a hognose snake which will flair its neck out like a cobra to scare off trouble. people will kill what they think is a copper head when it is actually a red belly water snake that looks very simular. editors note: the organization mentioned has denied any involvement in releasing the Cobras

Posted by: Danielle Location: Jacksonville on May 24, 2008 at 04:27 PM
Rosebud: The snake spotted in Cumberland Co. is believed to be a King Cobra and is still on the loose as far as authorities know. The two snakes in Jacksonville are Monacled Cobras. There are in fact three Cobras believed to be loose right now in two different locations.

Posted by: ZJB Location: Westminster, MD on May 24, 2008 at 04:07 PM
To everyone concerned about the monocled cobra reproducing or sticking around for a long time, you have nothing to worry about. Come winter time these snakes will freeze and die and so will offspring of this species. It is also next to impossible to convince these snakes to mate with another species because they know the difference in species, will fight over territory and dominance, and any attempt to mate would result in one or both of the animals dieing (or being eaten) in the process. NC's winter temperatures go way into the snake's lethal temperature range. There are very few exotic reptiles that can survive the cold winter temperatures or a late summer drought. Most cannot even handle frost in northern Florida! You are also perfectly safe from these snakes unless you happen to deliberately pick them up, trap them, or step on them. Just leave them alone and they'll leave you alone, assuming that they are really out there and not phantoms like Timba brought up.

Posted by: Etta Location: Jacksonville on May 24, 2008 at 01:43 PM
Oh my God, somebody has got to find this thing because I am deathly afraid of snakes!

Posted by: elmer Location: nc on May 24, 2008 at 12:41 PM
What happened to the woman's dog? I heard that is what she was looking for when she saw the cobra? Is it OK?

Posted by: Rosebud Location: Lagrange on May 24, 2008 at 10:28 AM
The first story said a snake was seen in Cumberland Co. by a caretaker on a four wheeler, now the report says Onslow Co. WITN please clarify this story.

Posted by: Mike Location: Edenton on May 24, 2008 at 06:17 AM
If the authorities can prove who turned these animals out, they should face charges of domestic terrorism.

Posted by: Timba Location: Nevada on May 24, 2008 at 03:49 AM
Very interesting. An uncommon venomous snake is found loose. A nearby flyer says two of these uncommon snakes area are actually loose. No other contact with the authorities is made about these escaped snakes. Sounds like a perfect setup to me. I would not be surprised at all if it turns out only one snake is loose and the poster was placed to lead authorities on a wild goose chase. What a terrible thing for someone to do. (If they were my snakes, I would have contacted authorities, and would be looking for them myself, as any escape would have been the result of something extraordinary.) Cobras are especially deadly snakes. Whoever did this should be locked up for a long time. Mystery lions show up in Ohio whenever anti-animal legislation is being considered. Dead cougars and alligators have shown up in other places legislation was being considered. But such is the way of the animal rights folks. They will do any and everything, legal or otherwise, to force their agenda on all of us.

Posted by: curious Location: PA on May 23, 2008 at 11:48 PM
Where is mill farms rd? I have family in Jacksonville NC. I know where Piney Green is located. It is any where close to Rocky Run Rd.?

Posted by: Just Wondering Location: Jacksonville, NC, (near the sited area) on May 23, 2008 at 11:32 PM
OK, aside from the activists and related issues...let me ask this...if there really are two cobras loose here, could they mate with other snakes and produce young? I don't mean to sound far out, but is this a possibility? Could they reasonably survive in our climate if not captured? I would just like to know the facts about whether they would/could thrive here.

Posted by: Zuzana Location: Nevada on May 23, 2008 at 11:03 PM
Suzy, thanks, I will use your analogy, NOT all exotic animals owners are abusive or bad, the tiny minority give bad name to the majority, just like not all human parents or domestic animal owners are bad. But few bad examples of bad parenting or dog ownership shouldn’t be a reason to ban human/dog reproduction/ownership. So why the double standard, why do animal rights groups (including API) ask for total exotic bans because they find few bad examples? Punish the bad individuals, NOT ban everybody who is responsible and just happens to own same animal like few isolated idiots. API wants to be treated fair, but they do not give the same consideration to the majority of exotic animal owners who are loving and devoted to their animals.

Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on May 23, 2008 at 11:01 PM
I pray one wasn't a male and one wasn't a female. Because if that is the case, then folks we are in big trouble!

Posted by: Tom Location: Kansas on May 23, 2008 at 09:19 PM
Jessica Stout denies that the API dumped these animals and expects everyone to take her word for it. However, the API that she represents makes many false accusations against animal owners in general and expects us to believe that. Who is more likely to release animals? Animal rights activists who have been known to release thousands of animals and even poison them, or owners who value those animals and stand to lose a lot of money? This thing should have been blown open a long time ago. Take away their toys, people. Don't let animal rights activist make any decisions for you whatsoever, under any circumstances or for any reason.

Posted by: suzy on May 23, 2008 at 09:17 PM
Not all christians bomb abortion clinics. Not all animal welfare agencies resort to "tactics" such as this. The fanatics give everyone a bad name.

Posted by: Zuzana Location: Nevada on May 23, 2008 at 08:47 PM
PS: Also, what makes API self proclaimed wildlife and exotic pet experts? Other then one veterinarian http://www.api4animals.org/c2_press_bios.php, I don’t see anybody having any serious hands on captive exotic animal experience? I can see brain surgery movie, but it doesn’t make me a brain surgeon, u can see animal movies, but that doesn’t make you animal experts. If you claim exotics make bad pets and need to be banned, that is your personal biased opinion, don’t get exotic pet then,but don’t force others to live your lifestyle, this is AMERICA.

Posted by: SacramentoMom Location: Sacramento on May 23, 2008 at 08:36 PM
Jessica in Sac: you don't live where this is happening, and neither do I. You can't possibly know whether API dumped these critters or not. It's very, very interesting that for the past couple of years, each time an animal rights industry organization such as API, PeTA or HSUS blesses or introduces legislation banning/limiting exotic pet ownership... some exotic animal is found wandering loose in the area affected by the proposed law. Fascinating coincidence, hm?

Posted by: Zuzana Location: Nevada on May 23, 2008 at 08:33 PM
Jessica Stout,we seem to agree that breed specific legislation is bad (I researched you); anti exotic species legislation is bad too;it bans pets based on the species and not individual actions of the animal or owner.API is accusing this news site of not using sources, but look at your own site: http://www.api4animals.org/a3b_exotic_pets.php full of personal biased opinions and fear mongering,not citing the sources or ‘study’ that would prove exotics make bad pets. Yes, zoos have to be ‘roadside’,if the zoo was not by the road, zoning would never give a permit to build the zoo.To see the facts and minimal risk associated with owning exotics, see these factual links: http://www.rexano.org//Statistics/NumberOddsDeathLifeExotic.pdf http://www.rexano.org//Safety.htm

Posted by: Jacqueline Location: Kittrell on May 23, 2008 at 08:11 PM
Gotta love those AR groups huh? Gee sounds like PETA. These AR groups need to be wiped out. Then you wouldn't have to worry about these stupid laws at all. Frankly the only way I think a bill needs to be intro'ed is if and only if the public asks for it.

Posted by: ZJB Location: Westminster, MD on May 23, 2008 at 07:20 PM
'"Obviously this is a hoax perpetrated by someone upset about pending legislation that we are involved in," Wilder [API founder] said.' Obviously API and the other animal rights groups are involved in this and deliberately dumped the cobras to stir up public and politician hysteria. They immediately shift the blame and are watching this story as if things were planned ahead of time. It's common sense that an owner of a several THOUSAND dollar snake would not release it unless they had an agenda in league with the animal rights organizations pushing for the latest ban. No normal person just throws away THOUSANDS of dollars like that especially when considering the liability implications. Organizations such as API, PETA, HSUS, ALF, and others have MILLIONS in assets they sit upon so they're safe in the event of a liability problem, unlike your average owner which would be jailed and lose his/her house, job, and children. It's obvious these organizations are behind the releases.

Posted by: lola Location: charlotte on May 23, 2008 at 07:18 PM
Seriously? You are reporting that the snakes exist, yet no one can find them. There is a flyer saying someone lost them, and instead of calling the number on the flyer and finding out whose snakes they are and when they lost them and where, you are quoting un-named "officials" that an animal advocacy group on the other side of the country put the snakes there? I am sure those "officials" aren't named because they don't exist. As a news organization, you would think you'd check your facts and do fair and balanced reporting rather than sensationalizing ridiculous claims from an obviously un-official source. The only story there is here is how far the news will go to make one up. Editors note: These facts were researched and reported to the fullest extent. WITN did not make up the news, it happened, we reported on it.

Posted by: Jessica Stout Location: Sacramento on May 23, 2008 at 06:46 PM
I work for API and I am directly saying "We did not do it". There is your statement.

Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane,NC on May 23, 2008 at 06:19 PM
Maybe it was the same people that removed the fence around the birds at the beach.

Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane,NC on May 23, 2008 at 06:16 PM
Voter: loved it, loved it, great comment.

Posted by: Zuzana Location: Nevada on May 23, 2008 at 05:34 PM
Here is the link to API response, correct me if I am wrong please, I do NOT see them directly say, 'no we did NOT do it' http://www.api4animals.org/weblog.php?p=1661&more=1

Posted by: Zuzana Location: Nevada on May 23, 2008 at 05:17 PM
Here is an example of some tactics API, Animal protection institute uses to get 'evidendce' Z http://www.rexano.org/FCFnewsAPI.pdf Animal Rights Group Secretly Films Exotic Animal Owners and Fails to Document Injuries Or Escapes To accomplish this task two API investigators posed as European exotic animal owners wanting to visit the US. They struck up Internet friendships on various exotic animal chat lists. Many in the exotic animal community graciously shared their animals with the travelers. Owners spoke candidly and gave their colleagues 'insider' tours to make their visit memorable. The selectively edited footage in this API expose' is combined with ominous music and dubbed voice-overs to manipulate the viewer and give false impressions ...Despite these two activists being exposed to more exotic animals and having more close encounters with them during several months of travel than the average person has in their lifetime, none of the API investigators were injured and no escapes or serious mishaps occurred

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Buffalo on May 23, 2008 at 04:55 PM
Kay, your argument makes no sense at all, yes anti-abortion activists bomb clinics and murder doctors, and Tree Activists burn down homes; they don't burn down the very trees that they are trying to protect. They are targeting the opponents, not their own cause. API would be harming the snakes by releasing them, and since they are for the protection of animals, I doubt that they would intentionally put those snakes in danger when they are the very creatures that API is trying to protect! Check API's history; they are not PETA, they do no have a history of these sorts of outrageous stunts.

Posted by: Malachi Location: Kinston on May 23, 2008 at 04:21 PM
Mongoose for sale.

Posted by: Mouth Of the Hood Location: Greenville on May 23, 2008 at 04:12 PM
Who would waste their money just 2 prove a point and put citizens in harm intentionally? Hmmm...the gov't! Look at IRAQ.

Posted by: Yo Mama Location: L-town, GA on May 23, 2008 at 04:11 PM
Isn't it illogical that API would release these snakes? After all, they are for the protection of exotic animals. Since the snakes risk being harmed due to their release, it makes sense that API was not the ones who released the snakes. Obviously, the organization has been framed. Use a little common sense people!

Posted by: ZJB Location: Westminster, MD on May 23, 2008 at 04:00 PM
If you released deadly snakes into the public and didn't want to be caught, you'd deny that you did it too. Just because Animal Protection Institute denies they released these snakes does not mean they or their associates didn't release the snakes. Anti-reptile legislation is always paired with these kinds of antics. The average person cannot own one of these cobras due to costs associated with acquiring the animal and upkeep. Also, someone who owns one of these animals would not deliberately release their INVESTMENT especially when it's currently legal and there's pending legislation that would make their ownership illegal. It's plain common sense and owners are not that dumb. As usual, API, ALF, PETA, and HSUS are likely behind these sightings and dumping of some of the world's most dangerous snakes. With tens of millions of dollars in resources (unlike most pet owners), these organizations can easily afford to buy and dump animals to force a point, then cover up their antics.

Posted by: Kay on May 23, 2008 at 03:54 PM
Yeah Yeah, API is not responsible, just as Abortion Activists do not bomb clinics or try to murder the doctors that perform those acts; or tree activists do not burn down brand new house being built on land destroyed by developers! What a crazy world we live in!

Posted by: neighbor Location: Piney Green on May 23, 2008 at 03:48 PM
Heard that one was caught, Can anyone confirm that?

EDITOR'S NOTE: At last check, neither snake had been caught.


Posted by: J Location: NC on May 23, 2008 at 03:40 PM
For those of you who say the animal rights group was not involved in any kind of way, how do you know? Do you work with them? If not, let authorities handle it.

Posted by: Wondering Location: Greenville on May 23, 2008 at 03:25 PM
Have they captured ethier one of them? The video says that one was in a crawl space or somthing? Did they get it? Or are both still on the loose??

Posted by: Mother of 3 Location: Pink Hill on May 23, 2008 at 03:11 PM
Thank you for the photo's WITN, I think now the public will be more aware of what we are watching out for.

Posted by: Susan Location: Dallas, TX on May 23, 2008 at 03:07 PM
Readers - consider that this may have been done by the people that actually are against API; take the high ground, and don't get so hysterical and start pointing fingers without considering all sides of the story. It's easy to finger point at API just because someone implicated them; but all the while that everyone is in hysterics over what could be the wrong perpetrator, the real perpetrators could be out there planning more releases.

Posted by: Melissa Location: NY on May 23, 2008 at 02:49 PM
DUH!why would people that are in a group to protect animals deliberatly "dump" cobras to harm people and then in turn have the cobras killed for harming people? thats so stupid, they wouldnt! who are the "Officials" and what proof do they have that API did this? API doesnt drive around in every state waiting for someone to upset them and then throw some dangerous animal out their to prove a point, thats crazy and it does not make any sense. Plus if they did that organization would of been banned along time ago, come on people think about this!! I want to see proof that they did this!!!

Slightly Edited


Posted by: Hanna Location: NC on May 23, 2008 at 02:47 PM
Everybody wants a description! Do you know how to search on Google? Take a look and compare the different species...

Posted by: Kirsten Location: Savannah, GA on May 23, 2008 at 01:50 PM
Maybe the snakes were deliberately dumped, but it was NOT done by API. Yes, API protects animals, but the organization would never put people in deliberate danger. Seriously, who writes this stuff?

Posted by: Debbie Location: Swan Quarter on May 23, 2008 at 01:47 PM
I agree with Kay and Lorie. Do the activists care that someone could get hurt by these snakes? They must not care for human life to put people in danger like this.

Posted by: Eileen Location: Miami on May 23, 2008 at 01:42 PM
Glad that officials see it is the animal rights activists releasing them, NOT responsible owners. I hope people begin to become aware of these activists. They are the threat to animals, not pet owners. It is obvious that is was an activist, what are the odds that a venomous snake is released, in the midst of proposed bans in NC proposed by activist, and the person who happens to see the snake knows exactly what snake it is? Slim to none. People may know what a cobra looks like, but going as far as Monoclad Cobra...AR scheme for sure. Shame on them. They make all this hoopla, and the ones punnished are responsible owners.

Posted by: mjb Location: windsor on May 23, 2008 at 01:38 PM
This group sounds like PETA. I doubt they would have devenomized the snakes before they let them out. I believe they want people to get hurt. I've never seen a cobra before, the only way I would recognize it would be if it flattened out it's head and I would think by then it's getting ready to strike. There are several different kinds of cobras, I agree a description would be nice.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: North Carolina on May 23, 2008 at 01:34 PM
I can't help but notice that these "Officials" are not named. Who are these "Officials"? Are they actually from the police department, or are they "Officials" from a pro-exotic animal group, who would have every reason to implicate the Animal Protection Institute as the culprit?

Posted by: Melissa on May 23, 2008 at 01:26 PM
I just have to say that Animal Protection Institute was in NO WAY involved with the release of these snakes. They would NEVER jeapordize their credibility with such a foolish stunt. Check out their page on the web, educate yourselves as to they type of organization they are, and how they campaign for their causes. This would go against their entire mentality. These guys are not like PETA.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 23, 2008 at 12:17 PM
voter, you made me laugh out loud! Good one!

Posted by: Anonymous on May 23, 2008 at 10:53 AM
To animal rights friend.... just tell us stupid people who have been sheltered all our lives that it looks like the one on the front of the cobra mustang. Hell how are we suppose to know what this snake we have never seen before looks like?

Posted by: Lynn Location: Greenville on May 23, 2008 at 10:26 AM
My rule of thumb is....if I can't fish with it, it needs killing. Let the birds kill rodents and other problem animals.

Posted by: animal rights friend Location: jacksonville on May 23, 2008 at 10:04 AM
something to look into, usually when groups do something like this, they would have de-vemonized the snakes before they released them. Not that it makes the act much better, it is still a stupid tactic. And as for a description of the snake, its a cobra, whether you grew up with one or not I think everyone knows what it looks like. There really isn't any mistaking it.

Posted by: Heather Location: right off piney green on May 23, 2008 at 09:37 AM
i have to agree they should be in the bill. apparently the guy was a collector? i feel that if you have deadly pets you should have to take higher precautions to guarantee they cannot harm others...its torts law 101

Posted by: LORIE Location: WALLACE on May 23, 2008 at 09:34 AM
STUPID IDIOT HOW MUCH LOWER CAN YOU GET TO PUT PEOPLE IN DANGER INTENTIONALLY THE PEOPLE NEED TO BE CAUGHT AND PUT IN A CAGE WITH THE SNAKES

Posted by: Kay Location: Snow Hill on May 23, 2008 at 08:41 AM
Wow, that is just insane to think these activists would endanger innocent people's lives to prove a point. Let's hope that no curious toddler crosses paths with these reptiles! Animal Protection Institute...you ought to be ashamed of yourselves! Sick,,, just sick you are!!!

Posted by: Jesse Location: G-vegas on May 23, 2008 at 08:35 AM
walk on the buddy system, if you see the snake introduce it to your buddy...

Posted by: Jon Location: Choco on May 23, 2008 at 08:08 AM
I think voter so far wins the funniest comment of 08 good work

Posted by: sophie Location: chowan county on May 23, 2008 at 07:51 AM
"Animal Protection Institute"....doesn't appear this group is doing much to protect the animals if they are releasing them into a situation that could get the animals killed....that is putting them at risk and considered animal cruelty. Where is the ASPCA in all of this....seems they are not doing their job in the cruelty department.

Posted by: J Location: OFF PINEY GREEN on May 22, 2008 at 11:47 PM
WHERES MILLS FARM RD?????????????

Posted by: Kingfisher Location: Pamlico Beach on May 22, 2008 at 11:44 PM
Sounds like the meeting they had for SAVE THE BREED last week is trying to get the WITN off the pitbulls to me :)

Posted by: David Location: NC on May 22, 2008 at 09:55 PM
I thought that it was illegal to posses an animal like that in the United States. If it is not illegal, then it should be. No exotic animal like that should be allowed. Just like in this case, should the owner have let them out, they got out, or someone let them out to prove a point, the responsible parties should be prosecuted. This puts the citizens in the area at a major risk.

Posted by: al Location: Goldsboro on May 22, 2008 at 09:42 PM
MORONS NEED A LIFE ! I hope if for soome god awful reason they bite and kill someone I hope the DINGLE BERRIES GET DEATH!!

Posted by: gail Location: piney green rd on May 22, 2008 at 09:04 PM
I live on piney green and have no idea where mills farm rd is.

Posted by: voter Location: nc on May 22, 2008 at 08:55 PM
based on the description they could easily be mistaken for politicians.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 22, 2008 at 08:15 PM
From what I understand, somebody had them in their home and that's how they know of the two. Great neighbors!

Posted by: anonymous Location: plymouth on May 22, 2008 at 08:04 PM
call DOG THE BOUNTY HUNTER

Posted by: Zuzana Location: Nevada on May 22, 2008 at 08:01 PM
Considering new just introduced NC exotic animal bill had reptiles removed, the sudden suspicious sightings or reptiles on the loose in NC us not a surprise, somebody wants the reptiles back in the bill: http://www.rexano.org/StatePages/NorthCarolinaFrame.htm 2008 Legislation Senate Bill 1788 - Regulate Dangerous Animals TEXT Status: [S] Ref to Judiciary I (Civil). If fav, re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget on 05/21/2008 AND See the ‘reptiles at large coinciding with legislation ’ pattern from 2007: http://www.rexano.org/StatePages/2007_legislation_set_up.pdf AND: Increase in suspicious dead and live exotic animal dumping across the USA appears directly related to the legislation banning private ownership of exotic and wild animals http://www.rexano.org//NewsArchivePages/SuspiciousFeb06Frame.htm Zuzana www.REXANO.org

Posted by: Jonathan on May 22, 2008 at 07:51 PM
I hope I see one my shotgun has been itching to come of the safe!!!

Posted by: Anonymous on May 22, 2008 at 07:46 PM
How do they know it's two??

Posted by: Anonymous on May 22, 2008 at 07:45 PM
Do they know where they came from. How did they get in NC??????????????

Posted by: How on May 22, 2008 at 07:37 PM
How did these get loose? Were they a pet?????? EDITOR'S NOTE: We're still working on those details. We'll pass them along as soon as we get them.

Posted by: w Location: NC on May 22, 2008 at 07:29 PM
Well, how did they get loose??? Where did they come from? EDITOR'S NOTE: Information is limited at the moment. We'll post those details as soon as we get them.

Posted by: Joshua MacPhee Location: Newport NC on May 22, 2008 at 07:23 PM
Dude If I See Those Cobras Im Gonna Catch Them... I Love Snakes and Herps. EDITOR'S NOTE: Herps refers to reptile and amphibian species.

Posted by: bandanaman247 on May 22, 2008 at 07:19 PM
Send in the pit bulls I hear they can do anything !!

Posted by: K Location: Pitt County on May 22, 2008 at 06:57 PM
I wonder how long the other has been missing. According to the Fayetteville Observer, a man reported seeing what he thought was a cobra in Ceder Creek last week.

Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane,NC on May 22, 2008 at 06:25 PM
Since n o one in NC grew up seeing this snake, don't you think it wise to give a discription?

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