Cole Lindvall : “Coast Guard Saves Snake from Helicopter”

Related video: Three massive snakes removed from French Quarter streets ahead of Mardi Gras

CLEARWATER, Fla. (WFLA) – While the famous movie “Snakes on a Plane” may have captured our imaginations, a real-life scenario unfolded for Coast Guard crews in Clearwater, Florida.

Last week, the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater made an unexpected discovery – a snake had managed to sneak onto one of their helicopters.

Sharing the bizarre incident on Facebook, USCG Clearwater wrote, “This unexpected stowaway was found napping on a Jayhawk tailwheel. He reluctantly departed the scene when confronted 💀😱.”

The Miami Herald reported that the red-colored reptile was discovered on February 9 during a routine post-flight inspection of the MH60 helicopter conducted by Petty Officer 2nd Class Cole Lindvall.

Upon further examination, it was determined that the snake was a 2-foot-long corn snake. These non-venomous snakes, also known as chicken snakes or red rat snakes, are native to Florida and can reach lengths of up to 4 feet.

According to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, corn snakes are commonly found in various habitats including wooded groves, rocky hillsides, meadowlands, woodlots, tropical hammocks, barns, and abandoned buildings.