After a harrowing week on the run, Drogo, a six-foot red-tail boa constrictor, was safely recovered in Marion on Sunday, bringing immense relief to his owners and the local community.
The Toornman family found Drogo in an unexpected spot—nestled within the wheel well of their car, parked right in their own driveway. The snake had been missing since the night of August 19, sparking a widespread search effort bolstered by significant social media attention.
“It was a real shock, but we felt an overwhelming sense of relief upon finding him,” said Tim Toornman, Drogo’s owner. “I had begun to brace myself for the possibility that he might not return.”
The family had tirelessly searched for their pet, distributing missing pet flyers and enlisting the community’s help.
Melody Toornman, Tim’s daughter, expressed her gratitude towards her family and the community for their support. “I’m thankful for their concern and the support they showed during this time,” she said.
Drogo was found somewhat dehydrated but otherwise in good health. However, it was clear from a noticeable bulge in his body that he had enjoyed a meal during his absence, likely at the expense of a local rabbit or squirrel.
“He seems to have had a snack while he was missing,” Toornman noted. “Handling him too much after a meal can stress him out, which isn’t pleasant for either him or us.”
Local snake breeder and owner of 319 Reptiles, Chris Ferenzi, assured the family that Drogo is expected to recover fully. “He appears to be in good shape, and since he’s back before the weather turns cold, he should be perfectly fine,” Ferenzi commented.
Toornman emphasized that the family is now taking additional measures to prevent future escapes. Drogo will remain in his tank while he digests his meal, and the family has taken steps to ensure his enclosure is secure.
Ferenzi advised, “Boa constrictors are adept escape artists. It’s crucial to have a tightly secured lid or cover on their enclosure to prevent any more incidents.”