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Extremely Venomous African Viper Loose in Southern California Neighborhood, Police Say

Police said the nonnative viper can cause severe bites and asked residents to report sightings and avoid approaching it.

  • On Monday, the Santa Ana Police Department issued a public alert warning residents about a loose, venomous Gaboon viper spotted in a tree near Main Street and Edinger Avenue.
  • Native to rainforests in Central, West, and East Africa, the Gaboon viper is a non-native species requiring special permits for possession under California law.
  • Estimated at 4 to 5 feet long, the Gaboon viper possesses the highest venom yield of all vipers, yet experts note the species maintains a calm nature and rarely bites humans.
  • Officer Natalie Garcia confirmed police are collaborating with professional snake catchers to locate the animal, with no additional sightings reported since Monday.
  • Residents should avoid approaching or attempting to handle the snake and are instructed to report potential sightings to 834-4211 for assistance.
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A viper from Gabon, extremely poisonous, was seen in a residential area of the city of Santa Ana; people are asked not to approach or touch the snake

·Los Angeles, United States
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NBC LA broke the news in Los Angeles, United States on Monday, September 28, 2026.
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