A routine trip to the supermarket turned into a horrifying experience for 63-year-old Neville Linton. The UK resident had purchased a bag of broccoli from Aldi, only to discover a slithery surprise lurking within.
Three days after storing the broccoli in his fridge, Linton unwrapped it to prepare a meal. To his shock, he found a snake nestled among the green florets. The unexpected guest sent Linton into a panic, and he quickly called his sister for help.
The snake was identified as a potential ladder snake by staff at Dudley Zoo, where it was taken for safekeeping. However, herpetologist Dr. Steven J R Allain suspects it may be a viperine water snake, a harmless species found in southwestern Europe.
According to Allain, the snake likely hitched a ride into the UK on a shipment of vegetables from the Mediterranean region. The chilly fridge temperatures would have slowed the snake’s metabolism, allowing it to survive the journey.
Linton, who has a fear of snakes, is seeking compensation from Aldi for the distressing experience. The supermarket chain has apologized and offered compensation, but Linton feels the amount is insufficient, given the risk posed to his vulnerable family members.
The incident has sparked a mix of reactions, with some people expressing amusement and others sympathy for Linton’s ordeal. As for the snake, it has found a new home at Dudley Zoo, where it will help educate visitors about the importance of understanding and respecting reptiles.
