King Snake release
Originally developed during World War II as a waterproof tape for sealing ammunition cases, duct tape has been used in a variety of ways ever since, including sometimes as a guide on garage floors for parking vehicles. Unfortunately, any product sticky enough to adhere to concrete has the potential to cause problems for local wildlife. This curious kingsnake was found in a resident’s garage, entangled in duct tape and unable to move. Most likely, the tape’s edge was worn and slightly lifted, exposing the snake to the adhesive as he slithered across. (TWC recommends industrial floor marking tape or specialized paint for lines on garage floors, as safer, more durable, alternatives to duct tape.)
Once discovered, the snake was brought to Tucson Wildlife Center where our wildlife care team used mineral oil and chinchilla dust to gently remove the tape from his delicate skin and scales. To help break down the adhesive on the tape, the snake was coated with mineral oil. Once the oil began to seep under the edges of the tape, the adhesive began to loosen, and the tape was gently and slowly peeled away from the snake’s skin. After the tape was removed, chinchilla dust was applied to the area where the tape had been stuck. This fine, powdery substance helped to absorb any remaining oil on his skin.
Once the snake’s skin was clean, dry and free of any sticky residue, his care team examined him and found him free of any injuries. After keeping him overnight for observation, a member of TWC’s rehabilitation team successfully released this beautiful kingsnake back into the wild. If you would like to help patients like this kingsnake, click this link to donate,
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