6 1/2-foot boa caught in Italy

CAPANNORI, Italy, Aug. 9 (UPI) -- Authorities in Italy said a 6 1/2-foot boa constrictor was captured outside of a small town and is being studied by a team of researchers.

Animal protection agency Anpana said the snake was captured by volunteers in the Compitese hills, east of Lucca, and was taken to the nearby town of Capannori for study, ANSA reported Monday.

The reptile is believed to be a former pet, authorities said.