Albino python found in Canadian wilderness

CHILLIWACK, British Columbia, June 20 (UPI) -- An albino Burmese python was found slithering through the wilderness of British Columbia after its owners apparently dumped it there, officials said.

The snake, which measured about 6 feet, was found in bad shape near Chilliwack, the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. reported Thursday.

Veterinarian Adrian Walton is working on nursing the reptile, a native to South Asia and Southeast Asia, back to health at an animal clinic in Maple Ridge.

"He is this absolutely beautiful yellow snake," Walton said. "He's extremely friendly. This kind of snake is what I call the Great Dane of the snake world."

In British Columbia, prospective albino Burmese python owners are required to get a permit for the snakes.

"A lot of people never pursued their permits, and so when they decide they want to get rid of them, there's really no where to give them," Walton said.